A case of maxillary ameloblastoma that repeatedly recurred and spread into the skull

Abstract

Ameloblastomas are benign odontogenic tumors that often recur. Factors that increase the likelihood of recurrence include the age (young onset), tumor size, site of occurrence, histopathological type, and treatment method. We herein report a case of maxillary ameloblastoma that developed at a young age and had repeated recurrences, along with a literature review. The patient, a 48-year-old male, underwent his first surgery at 14 years old. After that, he experienced recurrence, undergoing multiple subsequent surgeries. The tumor that had recurred six years ago had grown and spread to the base of his skull, so he underwent surgery. The tumor adhered to the dura mater and had partially invaded the orbit. The tumor was completely removed, and the maxillary sinus defect was filled with a rectus abdominis muscle flap. There is a possibility of recurrence in the future, and the patient is currently undergoing continued follow-up.