Squamous odontogenic tumor

Abstract

Squamous odontogenic tumor is a rare, benign Radiographically, many of the reported cases have epithelial odontogenic tumor first described by Pullon et al in 1975 [1]. Before this study was published, the tumor was reported under a variety of names, such as ‘‘benign epithelial odontogenic tumor,’’ ‘‘acanthomatous ameloblastoma,’’ ‘‘acanthomatous ameloblastic fibroma,’’ ‘‘hyperplasia and squamous metaplasia of residual odontogenic epithelium’’ and ‘‘benign odontogenic tumor, unclassified.’’ Only a few dozen cases have been documented in the literature [2]. This article references only studies in which the supporting photomicrographs demonstrate typical squamous odontogenic tumor. Some case reports seem to represent the desmoplastic variant of conventional ameloblastoma and are not included in the list of references. The histogenesis of squamous odontogenic tumor may be multifactorial. Rests of Malassez is the source of the epithelial proliferation for lesions that are associated with the alveolar process adjacent to the lateral root surface of the teeth [1–3], and dental lamina may be the source for lesions that developed in association with the crowns of unerupted or impacted teeth [2–4]. Surface stratified squamous epithelium and rests of Serres have been cited as the sources of the extraosseous variant [2]. Squamous odontogenic tumor has occurred over a wide age range, and the reported incidence peaks in the third decade of life. There is a slight male preponderance, and the mandible commonly is involved. Several case studies represented multiple lesions in the same individual [5–8], and one report described multicentric disease in three siblings [9].