Ameloblastoma: a rare nasal polyp

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Otorhinolaryngology
• Oncology

Background:

• Ameloblastoma is a benign odontogenic neoplasm originating from the enamel organ.
• Maxillary ameloblastomas are rare and can present with atypical symptoms, mimicking sinonasal diseases.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial due to the potential for local destruction.

Observation:

• A case of maxillary ameloblastoma presenting with nasal obstruction and rhinorrhea is described.
• The patient had no prior dental history, making the diagnosis challenging.
• The lesion exhibited significant destructive potential within the maxilla.

Findings:

• This is the second reported case of maxillary ameloblastoma with these presenting symptoms in English literature.
• The first successful excision using a combined maxillotomy and endoscopic ethmoidectomy approach was performed.
• Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of ameloblastoma.

Implications:

• Maxillary ameloblastoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of unexplained nasal and maxillary masses.
• Combined surgical techniques may offer an effective treatment option for complex maxillary ameloblastomas.
• Further research into the management of rare odontogenic neoplasms is warranted.