Clinicopathologic Profile of Patients with Maxillofacial Tumors in a Tertiary Level Government Institution

Abstract

Rationale: Bone tumors of the head and neck region are rare. Their occurrence, biologic behavior, and management can cause significant personal, social, behavioral and economic ramifications. The aim of this study was to describe the clinicopathologic profile of patients with maxillofacial tumors in a tertiary level government hospital. Methods: This was a retrospective, descriptive study over a five-year period (January 2013 to December 2018). Results: A total of 256 patients was included in the study, with females accounting for 53.5% and males for 46.5%. The mean age of presentation was 37.4 years with a range of 18-80 years. The mean age of patients with benign tumors was 36.1 years, while those with malignant tumors was higher at 61.8 years. Majority of the tumors involved the mandible. Ameloblastoma and dentigerous cysts were the most prevalent benign odontogenic tumors while squamous cell cancer was the most common malignancy. Radical surgery with composite reconstruction was done in malignant cases to ensure adequate pathologic margins, while a more conservative tissue-sparing approach was done for benign cases. Conclusion: Management of maxillofacial tumors remains a challenge because of its relative anatomic location and locally advanced state upon detection. Identifying these tumors at an early stage ensures adequate resection with minimal functional and aesthetic loss. The low morbidity and mortality rates reported in this study emphasizes the role of the multidisciplinary team approach, surgical experience and comprehensive perioperative care in the management of bone tumors in the head and neck. Key words: odontogenic tumors, oral cavity, maxillectomy, mandibulectomy, ameloblastoma, maxillofacial surgery, squamous cell carcinoma