Vascularized ameloblastoma: A case report and clinicopathologic review of 18 cases from the literature

Abstract

The notable features of ameloblastoma do not typically include prominent vascularity. However, on rare occasions, vascular ameloblastoma has been described under a variety of names. We present a case of vascularized ameloblastoma that had a bloody return on fine-needle aspiration. The English language literature contains a total of 16 reports (18 cases) of vascular or hemangioma-like ameloblastoma. We reviewed the clinical, pathologic, and radiographic features of the 19 cases, but further study and more cases are needed. The recognition of this variation of ameloblastoma is important for clinicians to note that fine-needle aspiration with a bloody return does not exclude ameloblastoma from diagnostic consideration. We suggest the term vascularized ameloblastoma to avoid any suggestion of a vascular neoplasm.