Ghost cell odontogenic carcinoma of the mandible: case report and review of literature

ITOU, Anouar; OUATTASSI, Naouar; Dounia, KAMAL; MN, EL Alami

doi:10.21608/OMX.2023.180331.1180

Ghost cell odontogenic carcinoma of the mandible: case report and review of literature

Document Type : Case Report

Authors

¹ MD student ENT and Cervicofacial Surgery Department, Hassan II University Hospital Center, Fez

² Assistant Professor at ENT and Cervicofacial Surgery Department, Hassan II University Hospital Center, Fez

³ Professor ENT and Cervicofacial Surgery Department, Hassan II University Hospital Center, Fez

10.21608/OMX.2023.180331.1180

Abstract

Introduction Ghost cell odontogenic carcinoma is described as an exceptionally rare malignant odontogenic tumor. The most
characteristic histo logical feature is the presence of ghost cells; however the presence of ghost cells is not a specific feature.
This article reports a mandibular case and documentes its clinico pathological features, hisological and radiological images
and finally treatment received. Case report A 19-year-old female patient consulted for painful left cheek swelling, gradually
increasing in volume. A 8 cm × 3 cm expansive mass was examined in the mandible, Physical examination revealed absence
of molar contact on the left side with deviation of the lower dental arch on the contralateral side. Radiological assessment
revealed a large, multi-compartmental osteolytic lesion of the left mandible, reaching upwards to the coronoid process and the
temporal condyle. Histological examination of the surgical piece supported the diagnosis of ghost cell odontogenic carcinoma.
Additional resection of the tumorous bone boundaries was performed. Then the decision of the multidisciplinary consultation
meeting was to supplement the care with external radiotherapy. Discussion Ghost cell odontogenic carcinoma is very rare. The
patient whose observation we report is particularly young. Clinical and radiological signs are not specific. The diagnosis is
histological. The aggressive and recurrent nature requires radical wide surgery and close surveillance.

Keywords