Malignant maxillofacial bone tumors

Abstract

Purpose of review: Malignant bone tumors of the head and neck region are rare. Due to the paucity of studies on these tumors, patients with these maxillofacial malignancies can suffer from high morbidity and mortality.

Recent findings: Currently, mainstay management of these tumors includes wide surgical resection with margins followed by radiotherapy and/or adjuvant chemotherapy. Although much progress has been made over the last few decades regarding the prognosis of many of these tumors, large multicenter trials are needed to better determine their optimal management.

Summary: The current review will provide a broad review of the most current epidemiology, pathogenesis, prognosis, and management of the most common bone malignancies of the maxillofacial skeleton.