Abstract

We present a case of keratocystic odontogenic tumor (KCOT) in maxillary canine region which was mistaken for a periapical lesion and was treated accordingly that is, root canal treatment of the teeth involved, was attempted, without checking for their vitality status. When the symptoms did not subside, the patient was operated under local anesthesia and the lesion was sent for histopathological examination which confirmed the diagnosis of an infected KCOT. Keratocystic Odontogenic tumor may look similar to endodontic lesions. Clinicians should carefully review the cases and consider surgical intervention with biopsy in cases that do not heal.

Key words: Keratocystic odontogenic tumor, Peri-apical lesion, odontogenic keratocyst, lateral periodontal cyst.