Mandibular plexiform ameloblastoma in an adolescent: Clinical, radiological and therapeutic challenges—A case report
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Background: Ameloblastoma is a benign but locally aggressive odontogenic tumor predominantly affecting adults. Its occurrence in adolescents is uncommon and presents unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to ongoing craniofacial growth.Case Presentation: A 16-year-old male presented with a painless, progressively enlarging swelling on the left side of the mandible for 4–5 years, with recent acceleration in growth. Clinical examination revealed facial asymmetry with cortical thinning and egg-shell crackling. Radiographic evaluation demonstrated a large multilocular radiolucency involving the mandibular body and ramus, displacing the impacted third molar and causing root resorption of the adjacent tooth. Computed tomography confirmed buccolingual cortical expansion and thinning without distant extension. Incisional biopsy established the diagnosis of plexiform ameloblastoma. Considering the patient’s age, conservative surgical resection followed by reconstruction was performed. Histopathological examination confirmed the plexiform variant.Conclusion: Ameloblastoma, although rare in adolescents, should be considered in persistent mandibular swellings. Accurate diagnosis requires careful clinical, radiographic, and histopathological correlation. Management in young patients must balance adequate tumor clearance with preservation of growth, function, and esthetics. Long-term follow-up remains essential due to recurrence potential.
Language: English
Subfield: Oral Surgery
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7162633596