UNICYSTIC AMELOBLASTOMA – CLINICAL CASE REPORT

Abstract

Female patient, 35 years old, attended at the Dental Clinic of Cesumar University – Curitiba Unit, referred for dental evaluation, presenting a history of negative dental experiences and panic attacks associated with dental treatment. Clinical examination revealed a hardened swelling in the left masseter region and an active infection in the retromolar trigone area, in close proximity to tooth 36 and the residual root of tooth 37. Radiographic examination demonstrated an extensive, well-defined, multilocular radiolucent lesion with a characteristic “soap-bubble” appearance, located in the ascending ramus of the left mandible and extending to the mandibular notch. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was performed to further assess the lesion's extent. The differential diagnoses included multicystic ameloblastoma, unicystic ameloblastoma, odontogenic keratocyst, and dentigerous cyst. An incisional biopsy was performed following an unsuccessful aspiration attempt, and two tissue samples were submitted for histopathological analysis. Postoperatively, the patient received antibiotic therapy and analgesic medication. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of unicystic ameloblastoma. Based on the findings, the patient was informed about the benign yet locally aggressive nature of the lesion and was referred to a specialized service for definitive treatment planning. This case highlights the importance of clinicoradiographic correlation and histopathological examination for accurate diagnosis, as well as appropriate referral for specialized management, considering the lesion’s potential for local aggressiveness and recurrence.