Biological profile of ameloblastoma and its location in the jaw in 1246 Nigerians.

OBJECTIVES: Ameloblastoma is a benign, slow-growing, locally invasive epithelial tumor of odontogenic origin, with unlimited growth capacity and a strong tendency to recur. This multicentric study analyzed ameloblastoma diagnosed in Nigeria among different ethnic groups.

STUDY DESIGN: This retrospective study included ameloblastoma cases diagnosed from 1964 to 2017 at 10 hospitals or medical centers in Nigeria. Age, sex, tribe, and location of the ameloblastoma in the jaw were analyzed. Associations between variables were tested by using χ2 and Fisher's exact test.

RESULTS: A total of 1246 ameloblastoma cases were recorded (mean patient age 32.51 ± 14.54 years; range 4-86 years; male-to-female ratio 1.2:1). Approximately 60% of ameloblastoma cases occurred in young adults (age range 18-40 years). Ninety-eight lesions were located in the maxilla and 1103 in the mandible; the posterior mandible was the most common site (31.3% on the right and 26.5% on the left, respectively), followed by the anterior (26.0%) mandible. No significant differences were noted in the distribution of ameloblastoma within the tribes with respect to age (P = .92) and sex (P = .71).

CONCLUSIONS: The mandible is a common site of ameloblastoma in patients in Nigeria, and in most cases, it occurs in young adults. Early presentation, diagnosis, and treatment are important to reduce postoperative disfigurement and morbidity.