A Case Report on Primary Ameloblastic Carcinoma of the Maxilla

Introduction: Ameloblastic carcinomas are rare odontogenic tumors, and when discovered in maxillary sinus, they are considered even rarer. Because of rarity, there is limited information about the clinical behavior of such patients.

Presentation of Case: We report a case of a 58-year-old man presented at our institution with 3 months history of reappearing for painful left maxillary swelling. Medical history shows that he had been diagnosed one year earlier for benign ameloblastoma of maxillary sinus and treated by maxillary curettage. Our clinical examination and radiological investigations shows a locally advanced tumor compatible with ameloblastic carcinoma of maxillary sinus. Histological re-evaluation of the initial specimen confirmed the diagnostic of ameloblastic carcinoma. Treatment consisted of chemo-radiotherapy, the patient underwent three cure of chemotherapy. The evolution was clinically marked by decreasing tumoral volume. He was lost of vu before undergoing radiotherapy.

Conclusion: Ameloblastic carcinoma may represent a serious diagnostic challenge. It should be considered in the differential diagnosis of benign ameloblastoma even if it’s rare.