A histologic variant of ameloblastoma: the acanthomatous type

Imen Mehri Turki,Amel Douggaz

doi:10.1051/mbcb/2015056

Abstract

Introduction : Ameloblastoma is the most common aggressive benign odontogenic tumor of the jaws. This kind of tumor arises from dental embryonic remnants. Clinical case : We report a case of acanthomatous ameloblastoma of the mandible occurring in a 79-year-old male patient. Through this case, we describe clinical and radiological findings in ameloblastoma, discuss different variants of this tumor, and emphasize the histological diagnosis. Discussion : Among the various types of aggressive benign odontogenic tumors, acanthomatous ameloblastoma represents a subtype of the solid multicystic ameloblastoma with specific microscopic features. Its course is controversial. Conclusion : Although the diagnosis of acanthomatous ameloblastoma is based on histologic features, dentists and oral surgeons should consider this possibility in patients with an aggressive tumoral process.

Highlights

Ameloblastomas are rare benign odontogenic tumors arising from dental tissue, the ectodermal cells responsible for the formation of tooth enamel
This tumor was described for the first time by Broca in 1868 as adamantinoma, coined with the name “ameloblastoma” by Churchill in 1934 [3]
On the basis of previous reports, acanthomatous ameloblastoma occurs in older patients rather than younger ones, while in developing countries ameloblastoma occurs in younger patients [1, 4]

Summary

Introduction

Ameloblastomas account for about 1% of all tumors of the jaw and mainly develop during the third to fifth decades of life [1]. Ameloblastomas exhibit distinct microscopic characteristics and variable histological patterns. Six patterns are discernible: follicular, plexiform, acanthomatous, granular cell, basal cell, and desmoplastic types [2]. The reported case illustrates hallmarks of acanthomatous ameloblastoma. Intraoral examination found a hard and painless swelling extending from the lower right third molar to the ramus. The patient looked in good health and did not have any significant medical history. He was unaware of the swelling noticed during intraoral examination.

55 Article publié par EDP Sciences

Findings

Discussion