A radiologic-pathologic study of the histopathologic variants of ameloblastomas and their proliferation indices

Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the clinicoradiologic features and Ki-67 proliferation indices between the histopathologic variants of ameloblastomas (ABs) for possible associations.

Study design: The diagnosis and histopathologic variant were confirmed for all cases by experienced Oral and Maxillofacial Pathologists. Immunohistochemistry for Ki-67 was performed on the most representative formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue block. Demographic, clinical data and radiologic features were analyzed from patient records and available radiographic examinations. The investigators were blinded to the histopathologic variant and proliferation index when the clinicoradiologic features were assessed.

Results: The current study included 116 cases of AB in the final sample. The indolent behavior of the unicystic variant was supported by their low proliferation index and slow growth paired with low frequencies of cortical destruction, loss of teeth, root resorption, and encroachment on anatomical structures. In contrast, the comparatively high proliferation index of the plexiform variant correlated with their fast growth and pain. Furthermore, high radiologic frequencies of cortical destruction, loss of teeth, and encroachment of surrounding anatomical structures supported their more aggressive clinical course.

Conclusion: Statistically significant differences were noted between certain variants and Ki-67, location, borders, locularity, and cortical destruction, providing better insight into their biological behavior.