Radiographic study of the unicystic ameloblastoma

Lee, Ju Duck; An, Chang Hyeon; Choi, Karp Shik

Abstract

PURPOSE
To acquire the useful diagnostic information through the analysis of the clinical and radiological characteristics of mandibular unicystic ameloblastoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The researchers compared and analysed the clinical and radiological features of 79 cases of mandibular unicystic ameloblastoma confirmed by histopathlogic examination. RESULTS: The results of our research showed that unicystic ameloblastomas occurred more frequently in males than in females and the incidence is the highest in the 2nd and 3rd decades. These lesions occurred most frequently in angle-ramus area, mandibular molar area, and anterior area in descending order respectively 68.4%, 24%, and 7.6%. These lesions had smooth (54.4%) rather than undulating (45.6%) borders. These lesions showed welldefined borders in 59.5% among all the cases. Root resorption and loss of lamina dura were observed as 55.7% and 58.5% respectively. Displacement of mandibular canal was observed in 55.9% among all the related cases. Internal pattern of lesional radiolucency was observed as even (49.4%) or uneven (50.6%). CONCLUSION: These results would be helpful in diagnosing of mandibular unicystic ameloblastoma.