Ameloblastic carcinoma of the mandible: A case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this paper was to report an additional case of ameloblastic carcinoma of the left hemi-mandible and to review and analyze clinical, radiological and histopathologic features, treatment modalities and prognosis. Presentation of case: A 70 year old malepatient presented to Maxillofacial Department for a painful swelling of the left cheek. An ameloblastic carcinoma of the left hemi-mandible was diagnosed. He underwent radical surgical intervention comprising hemimandibulectomy, supraomohyoid neck dissection, and fibula free-flap reconstruction. Postoperative radiotherapy was employed. Discussion: Ameloblastic carcinoma of the mandible is a rare aggressive tumor with a poor prognosis. It can be seen in different ages. The most common symptom is a rapidly progressing painful swelling. It is defined as a malignant epithelial odontogenic tumor that retains the features of ameloblastic differentiation with cytologic features of malignancy. Non therapeutic consensus is established. However, wide surgical excision with radiotherapy is the most common treatment. Conclusion: Diagnosis of ameloblastic carcinoma at early stage and close periodic screening for metastasis are necessary to improve patient prognosis.