Desmoplastic ameloblastoma of the mandible: A case report and review of the literature

Abstract

The desmoplastic variant of ameloblastoma was first described by Eversole et al1 in 1984. Since then, 80 cases have been reported in the literature.1-22 The histologic pattern of desmoplastic ameloblastoma (DA) is characterized by extensive stromal collagenization, or desmoplasia.13 Immunohistochemical studies suggest that the desmoplasia originates from de novo synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins. DAs do not present with radiographic or clinical features that are typical of other variants of ameloblastoma. The radiographic presentation is similar to that of many benign fibro-osseous lesions, so this newly recognized variant should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients who have tumors that resemble fibro-osseous tumors of the mandible and maxilla. The purpose of this article is to present the case of a patient with DA and a comprehensive review of the literature and to discuss treatment options and outcomes.