Squamous Odontogenic Tumor: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE: Squamous odontogenic tumor is a rare benign epithelial odontogenic neoplasm whose overlapping features with other odontogenic lesions may hinder diagnosis and management. This systematic review analyzed clinical, radiographic, histopathological characteristics and treatment outcomes of SOT. METHODS: Comprehensive search was conducted in April 2025 across PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Library, Livivo, BVS, SciELO, ProQuest, OpenGrey, IBICT/BDTD, and Google Scholar. Two independent reviewers performed study selection, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessment. Only cases fulfilling diagnostic criteria established by the WHO Classification of Head and Neck Tumors (2024) were included. Cases descriptions and images were assessed by an experienced oral pathologist to confirm diagnostic consistency. RESULTS: A total of 65 SOT lesions were identified, including 59 intraosseous and 6 peripheral cases. Intraosseous lesions occurred across a wide age range with slight male predominance. Most lesions were solitary and located in the maxilla or posterior jaw regions. Radiographically, intraosseous lesions were predominantly unilocular, with triangular configuration most frequently reported. Most lesions were treated with conservative surgery, particularly surgical excision, and recurrence occurred in a minority of intraosseous cases. Peripheral lesions were solitary and showed a benign course without recurrence. CONCLUSION: SOT generally presents as a benign lesion with a favorable prognosis.