Clinical features and management of ameloblastoma of the mandible in children and adolescents.

Thirty cases of ameloblastoma of the mandible in children and adolescents were reviewed. During the period of evaluation, 206 patients with ameloblastoma in the craniofacial region were seen of which 14.6% were in children (under 18 years). The tumour was more prevalent in male (1.5:1). Enucleation with curettage of the surrounding bones appears adequate for unicystic lesions. Multicystic lesions were managed by radical resection of the mandible with or without immediate reconstruction of defect with bone graft or by resection of the lesion with the dentoalveolar structure and preservation of the lower border of the mandible. Uninvolved periosteum should be preserved because of its osteogenic potential.