The malignant ameloblastoma is also a rare entity. CT's are used to delineate soft tissue masses, destruction of cortical bone and extension of the tumor into adjacent structures. Ameloblastoma is a locally benign invasive tumor that has a high tendency to recur, metastasize and even undergo malignant transformation. Among the various types of ameloblastomas there are differences in recurrent patterns. Multicystic ameloblastoma has a much higher rate of recurrence than unicystic ameloblastoma.
Treatment ranges from conservative surgery to more radical procedures.
Conservative therapy includes radiotherapy, curettage, and enucleation. An ameloblastoma is an epithelial tumor similar to a basal cell carcinoma histologically. However, radiation therapy is rarely used as a primary treatment. Gardner believes that radiotherapy should only be used for inoperable cases.8 Other investigators advocate that radiotherapy in conjunction with surgery may have a place in the management of selected patients with recurrence. This case report illustrates the importance of adequate radical resection to avoid recurrence.