Odontogenic myxoma - clinical concept and morphological studies

Our experience with the odontogenic myxoma of the mandible is presented. Although it is a benign, slow growing neoplasm, it is locally aggresive. Patients rarely complain of any symptoms produced by this tumor. Morphological studies included enzymes histochemistry, as well as light and electron microscopy. Two major types of tumor cells were identified. One resembled a mature fibroblast, while the other had the morphological and functional criteria of a so-called myxoblast. We would recommend therapy comprising wide resection and consecutive primary osteoplasty.