Efficacy of adjunct topical application of 5-Fluorouracil in reducing the recurrence of odontogenic keratocyst

Background The main objectives for the management of odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) are the complete eradication of the lesion and thorough curettage to minimize the chance of recurrence. There are many modalities used as adjunctive therapies with varying success using various compounds in the form of thermal and chemical cauterization, which have been used in conjunction with conservative surgical treatment. Purpose This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the effect of topical 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) as an adjunct therapy in reducing the risk of recurrence of OKCs. Patients and methods Twenty-four patients with proven incisional biopsy as odontogenic keratocysts with no relevant systemic diseases were included in this study. The patients were treated with 5-FU cream after enucleation and peripheral ostectomy of the odontogenic keratocyst. Results The radiographic results showed a significant change in bone density at the site of excised lesions compared with immediate postoperative radiographs. No radiological signs of recurrence were found during the follow-up periods. Conclusion Conservative enucleation of OKC combined with topical application of 5- Fluorouracil as a chemical adjunct is an efficient, novel, and promising technique in reducing the recurrence of OKC.