Adenoid ameloblastoma: time for a change

Area of Science:

• Oral pathology
• Oncology
• Genetics

Background:

• Adenoid ameloblastoma (AA) was previously considered an aggressive subtype of ameloblastoma.
• The 2022 WHO Classification recognizes AA as a distinct odontogenic tumor entity.
• AA shares microscopic features with other odontogenic tumors like AOT, DGCT, and OCD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the classification and characteristics of adenoid ameloblastoma.
• To investigate the molecular pathogenesis of AA.
• To propose a new nomenclature for AA based on histopathologic and molecular findings.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and case studies on adenoid ameloblastoma.
• Analysis of recent genetic investigations focusing on AA pathogenesis.
• Comparison of histopathologic and molecular features of AA with related odontogenic tumors.

Main Results:

• Adenoid ameloblastoma is now classified as a distinct entity.
• CTNNB1 mutations are confirmed in 25% to 67% of AA cases.
• Significant histopathologic and molecular similarities exist between AA and dentinogenic ghost cell tumor (DGCT).

Conclusions:

• Adenoid ameloblastoma should be considered a separate entity from conventional ameloblastoma.
• The term "adenoid ameloblastoma" may not accurately reflect its distinct biological behavior.
• Renaming AA as "adenoid dentinogenic ghost cell tumor" is proposed to better represent its aggressiveness and pathogenesis.