[Adenomatoid odontogenic tumor (AOT) of the mandible: a surgical follow-up].

The AOT is a relative rare benign odontogenic tumor. It most often appears in the canine region of the maxilla and mandible in young patients. Radiolucencies in the region of non-erupted or vital teeth may produce diagnostic problems. The histological diagnosis of AOT is characterised by odontogenic epithelium, ductlike structures, amyloid-like material and calcifying areas. Case report A female patient of eleven years and ten months was referred for surgical exposure of the left mandibular canine by an orthodontist. This tooth was retained and root formation was incomplete. Radiologically, a radiolucency was seen, extending distally from the crown of the tooth towards the root. The deciduous tooth 73 was extracted and the retained left mandibular canine was surgically exposed. Healing was without result and the tooth was moved orthodontically. Two years later the tooth was seen in regular position and occlusion. Vitality tests were positive, distally to the tooth a 1.5[Symbol: see text]mm periodontal pocket was disclosed. A large radiolucency around the root of the tooth was seen. Supposing a cystic lesion a surgical intervention was performed without removal of the tooth. Histopathologically, an AOT was revealed. Conclusions In the sequence of surgical interventions it is highly likely that already at the first operation an AOT was present, however, went unnoticed clinically. The histological diagnosis of an AOT was only revealed after a second operation including tumor removal. In spite of surgical removal of the AOT the involved tooth found its position in the dental arch.