The growth characteristics of multilocular ameloblastomas. A histological investigation with some inferences with regard to operative procedures.

The growth characteristics of multilocular ameloblastomas and the reaction of the surrounding tissues were studied by means of a histological examination of 31 surgical specimens. Infiltration of spongy bone was observed frequently whereas there was little tendency to invade cortical bone. The periosteum largely prevented extension of the tumour. However, in the region of the mucosa overlying the alveolar process apparent encapsulation was absent. There were indications that the infiltrative growth pattern exhibited by an ameloblastoma within spongy bone was due to secondary enclosure of tumour tissue by remodelled bone.