Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 21, 2025
10:26
Inducing Apical Periodontitis in Mice
Published on: August 6, 2019
12.3K
Ameloblastomas mimicking apical periodontitis: a case series
G Soimu1, J-D Netto, Á-M Miranda
1Post graduation Program in Dentistry, Estácio de Sá University Av. das Américas, 700 bloco 8, 2o andar, sala 218, Shopping Cittá CEP 22640-100, Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro/RJ, Brazil ramoafop@yahoo.com.
Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal
|June 6, 2022
Summary
Ameloblastomas can mimic apical periodontitis. This study found these tumors often appear as well-defined, radiolucent lesions in adult males, causing swelling and bone damage.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology
- Odontogenic Tumors
- Radiology in Dentistry
Background:
- Ameloblastomas are benign odontogenic tumors.
- These tumors can clinically and radiologically resemble apical periodontitis.
- Distinguishing between these conditions is crucial for appropriate treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate clinical, radiological, and histological features.
- To analyze ameloblastomas that mimic apical periodontitis.
- To understand diagnostic challenges over a 14-year period.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of histologically diagnosed ameloblastomas (2005-2018).
- Inclusion criteria: clinical diagnosis of periapical lesion of endodontic origin.
- Tabulation and analysis of clinical, radiological, and histological data.
Main Results:
- Twenty cases included: 18 solid, 2 unicystic ameloblastomas.
- Mean patient age: fifth decade; 72% male.
- Commonly located in the posterior mandible (55%) as unilocular (80%), well-defined (95%) radiolucent lesions.
- Most cases asymptomatic; swelling and cortical bone rupture were frequent.
Conclusions:
- Ameloblastomas mimicking periapical lesions are typically diagnosed in adult males.
- These lesions are often well-defined, radiolucent, and unilocular.
- Clinical presentation frequently includes local swelling and bone cortical rupture.
