The radiologic features, histopathologic variants and proliferation indices of ameloblastomas in a South African sample

Abstract

In this thesis, The radiologic features, histopathologic variants and proliferation indices of ameloblastomas in a South African sample, the candidate aimed to assess factors that influence the behaviour of these odontogenic neoplasms. Our understanding of this neoplasm is paramount due to its high prevalence in South Africa and its burden on the healthcare system. In the study, ameloblastomas were diagnosed at a significantly younger age compared to patients from developed countries. Statistically significant associations between aggressive radiologic features with age and lesion duration were noted, emphasising the importance of timeous treatment to reduce patient morbidity. Faster growth correlated with radiologic signs of aggressiveness was also noted amongst female patients. The indolent behaviour of the unicystic variant was supported by their clinicoradiologic findings and the lowest overall proliferation index. The high proliferation index of the plexiform variant correlated with aggressive clinicoradiologic features, demonstrating more aggressive behaviour. The findings of this study have expanded the current understanding of this neoplasm with improvements in clinical management.