Radiographic Features of Histopathologically Confirmed Ameloblastoma: A Retrospective Study Using Cone-beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

Abstract

Ameloblastoma is a benign but locally aggressive odontogenic tumour most commonly affecting the mandible. Despite its benign nature, ameloblastoma is known for being slow-growing yet locally aggressive. It most commonly affects individuals in their third to fourth decades of life, with an equal distribution between males and females. This retrospective study evaluated the radiographic features of twelve histopathologically confirmed ameloblastoma cases treated over five years. Radiographic assessments included cone-beam computed tomography and conventional radiographs. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was performed using Carestream (CS) 9300.  For diagnostic confirmation, all patients underwent preoperative incisional biopsies under local or general anaesthesia. Post-surgical specimens from all cases were sent for histopathological examination to reconfirm the initial biopsy diagnosis and to evaluate the completeness of tumour excision. The majority of cases (66.7%) were observed in females, with ages ranging from 20 to 59 years. All lesions were located in the mandible, predominantly in the posterior angle-ramus region. Radiographically, multilocular radiolucencies (58.3%) were more common than unilocular patterns (41.7%), with most lesions showing well-defined and corticated margins. Cortical expansion, especially buccal (83.3%) and inferior mandibular border involvement (75%), was frequently noted. Internal features varied, including radiolucency, septae, soap-bubble appearance, and calcifications. Root resorption was seen in 91.7% of cases, and 16.7% were associated with impacted mandibular third molars. These radiographic characteristics—particularly multilocular radiolucency, scalloped corticated borders, cortical expansion, and root resorption—are instrumental in diagnosis and treatment planning for ameloblastoma.