Peripheral ameloblastoma. A case report.

The peripheral or extraosseous ameloblastoma is a rare tumour of the oral cavity. Only a few well-documented cases have been reported. One additional case of this infrequent tumour in a 70-year-old edentulous man is described. The tumour arose on the mucosa of the lower alveolar crest. It was asymptomatic tender, with a raised and red appearance. The tumour was excised and no evidence of recurrence was seen five years later. Peripheral ameloblastoma probably arises from oral mucosa or from cell rests. It is less invasive than its intraosseous counterpart, and surgical excision with adequate margins is the treatment of choice.