Changing Trends of Odontogenic Cysts and Tumors in Kenya: A 20-Year Retrospective Analysis

Abstract

OBJECTIVES This study endeavors to bridge the long-term diagnostic and management gap through a comprehensive audit of odontogenic cysts and tumors in Kenya, offering crucial insights for both clinicians and policymakers. METHODS Patient records (2001-2020) with odontogenic cysts and tumors were retrospectively abstracted from two major referral hospitals in Nairobi, Kenya, covering demographics, lesion location, and histological diagnosis. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 29.0 (Released 2023; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States) was used for data analysis which included all descriptive statistics, student t-tests, chi-square tests, and one-way ANOVA. RESULTS A total of 1889 cases were analyzed. Males exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of cysts and tumors (p < 0.001). Odontogenic tumors dominated in the age group of 21-30 years, while cysts were prevalent in the age group of 11-20 years. Ameloblastoma was the most prevalent tumor (n=853; 84.1%) while dentigerous cysts were the most common cysts (n = 468; 53.5%), both demonstrating a male predilection. The mean age at presentation and site predilection of each tumor and cyst were also detailed. CONCLUSION This study provides crucial insights into odontogenic cysts and tumors in Kenya emphasizing geographic variations, age-specific patterns, and gender disparities for more effective diagnostic and management strategies, especially in resource-limited settings, to improve outcomes and reduce associated morbidity and mortality.