RESUMEN
AIM: Keratocystic odontogenic tumor (KOT) is a benign odontogenic neoplasm with locally aggressive behavior and high recurrence rates. It is associated with nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome which usually has a more rapid growth. The aim of the study is to report the experience of our service on diagnosis and treatment of KOT. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-five cases of KOT were diagnosed between the years of 1989 and 2006. Demographic data was collected as well as diagnose and treatment. RESULTS: Fifty-six percent were female with a mean age of 33 years old. Seventy percent occurred in mandibula and all received surgical treatment, associate or not with adjuvant therapy, such as cryotherapy and Carnoy's solution. Recidive was observed in 48% of cases with a mean period of time of 18 months. CONCLUSION: Our data analysis showed the importance of previous diagnosis before enucleation procedure and long-term follow-up for recurrence early detection. Recurrence incidence is more frequent on first year after diagnosis. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: KOT is a benign tumor with local aggressive behavior and therefore its treatment must consider the high index of recidive. Reports of protocol treatment should raise new discussion to decrease recurrence rates.