Cone beam computed tomography findings in a case of plexiform ameloblastoma

Ameloblastoma is a fairly common and highly aggressive odontogenic tumor of epithelial origin. It is primarily seen in adults in the third to fifth decade of life. Radiographically, it appears as an expansile lucency with thinned and perforated cortices. It is known to cause root resorption. Because it shares common radiographic features with other lesions, definitive diagnosis is made through histopathologic analysis. This case demonstrates the use of cone beam computed tomography in the differential diagnosis of a large plexiform ameloblastoma in a 29-year-old man. The extent of the lesion and the effect on adjacent structures can be discerned from the images. Additional features seen on these images can aid in the diagnosis. This imaging modality is also useful in surgical planning. Parole chiave: ameloblastoma, cone beam computed tomography, computed tomography, mandibular odontogenic tumor, maximum intensity projection (MIP), multiplanar reconstruction