Osteochondroma of the anterior mandible: A rare case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Osteochondroma (OC) is the most common benign tumour of the axial skeleton which often occurs from the metaphysis of the long bones but rarely occurs in the craniofacial region (<1% of cases). Literature shows that cases occur more in the mandibular condylar region. To date, only six cases of this incredibly rare OC in the mandibular front region have been documented in the last 30 years. In addition to reviewing the literature on OCs of the mandibular front region, this case report describes a case of OC involving the mandibular symphysis and left para-symphysis in a 67-year-old male patient. Histopathological examination revealed chondroid and osteoid tissue with sparse fibrous tissue patches and columns of chondrocytes with single tiny nuclei within the cartilaginous cap, and all these features were strongly suggestive of OC diagnosis.

Keywords: Mandible; osteochondroma (OC); symphysis.

Figure 1

Extra-oral photograph – no significant findings present

Figure 2

Intra-oral photograph – single, well-circumscribed bony hard swelling on the anterior mandibular ridge

Figure 3

OPG – multiple foci of mixed radiolucent-radiopaque extending from symphysis to left para-symphysis of the mandible

Figure 4

Incisional biopsy specimen showing multiple bits of tissue

Figure 5

(a-d): H & E-stained sections of tumour showing cartilaginous capping with bony and fibrous components. (Orange arrows show chondroid matrix/cartilage; yellow arrows show bony matrix with resting and reversal lines; black arrows show fibrous connective tissue)