Benign osteoblastoma of the mandible. A clinical-pathologic review and report of a case.

Benign osteoblastoma is an uncommon, solitary, osteoid and bone-producing tumor which is characterized by prevalent active osteoblasts and rich vascularized delicate fibrous stroma, previously regarded as malignant. The term benign osteoblastoma was recently proposed by different authors to separate this lesion from other solitary benign bone tumors. It most often involves long bones and vertebral column and other bones, and also occurs in jaw bones. There is a close histopathologic similarity between benign osteoblastoma and osteoid osteoma; consequently, much debate about them exists. Benign osteoblastoma has a good prognosis and is best treated by curettage or conservative surgical excision. Recurrence is rare. Because of its rarity in jaw bones, one case of benign osteoblastoma of the mandible is reported.