Update of odontogenic tumors

Abstract

The latest WHO classification of odontogenic tumours was published in 2005. The classification has been used as a global standard for last 10 years but our knowledge of odontogenic tumors continues to evolve. At biennial meetings of International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial pathologists (IAOP), we have started discussions on classification of odontogenic tumors toward the next WHO Classification. I would like to introduce some subjects of discussion including cyst-tumor interface (odontogenic keratocyst vs keratocystic odontogenic tumor, glandular odontogenic cyst vs central mucoepidermoid carcinoma, calcifying odontogenic cyst vs ghost cell lesions); placement of adenomatoid odontogenic tumor (hamartoma vs neoplasia, epithelial tumor vs mixed tumor with dentin formation), clear cell odontogenic carcinoma with dentinoid formation; primary intraosseous squamous cell carcinoma vs sclerosing odontogenic carcinoma; classification based on inductive phenomenon of odontogenesis vs clinical behavior and others. Recent advances in molecular analyses of odontogenic tumors will be presented. I expect to exchange opinions on the new classification of odontogenic tumors.