Radiologic features of desmoplastic variant of ameloblastoma

Desmoplastic variant of ameloblastoma is a newly described variant characterized by unique histologic and radiographic features. This study reviews and analyzes the clinical and radiographic features of 15 cases of desmoplastic variant of ameloblastoma (14 cases from the literature and one case from our files). Desmoplastic variant of ameloblastoma shows a predilection for the maxilla and has a tendency to occur in the anterior region of the mandible and maxilla. Radiographically, almost all desmoplastic variant of ameloblastomas exhibit a mixed radiolucent-radiopaque appearance. Most show poorly defined or diffused borders and are mistakenly diagnosed as fibro-osseous lesions.