Odontogenic Myxoma: a study based on biopsy material over a 40-year period.

AIM Odontogenic tumors, including odontogenic myxomas (OMs) are regarded as rare neoplasms in the human body. Nevertheless, they may be problematic for diagnosis and treatment planning due to possible variations between different races and countries. The aim of the current study was to present the clinicopathologic features of OM in an Iranian population over a 40-year period and compare them with those reported elsewhere. MATERIALS AND METHODS Clinical/demographic data and histologic slides of OMs and all lesions that could be considered in their differential diagnosis, reported from 1967-2008 were analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed using χ(2) and t-test and p < 0.05 was regarded significant. RESULTS Forty OMs were identified, of which 42.5% occurred in men (mean age, 27.4 years) and 57.5% in women (mean age, 28.2 years). Most tumors were observed in the posterior mandible. All cases possessed the classic World Health Organization histologic features; while 3, 15 and 6 cases showed epithelial rests, residual bone and conspicuous collagen bundles, respectively. Five patients were followed and none of their tumors recurred. CONCLUSION The clinicopathologic characteristics of the current Iranian population are similar to most other reports with a predilection for the posterior mandible, 3rd decade and female subjects; however, there were variations in microscopic features of the studied cases. Clinical significance: Clinical and histologic information on OM in different populations may be useful in clinical settings and treatment planning. Reporting more detailed histologic data can help clarify the biology of this tumor and aid in its histopathologic diagnosis. i