Ameloblastoma : Radiology

On plain films, 80-90% of ameloblastomas appear as multilocular radiolucent lesions with a classical expansile soap bubble appearance (if locules are large) or honeycombed appearance (if locules are small). The tumor has well-demarcated scalloped borders and no matrix calcifications. There may be erosion of adjacent tooth roots. Larger lesions can erode through cortex into adjacent soft tissues. An unerupted tooth, frequently mandibular 3rd molar, is associated with the lesion. Some cases appear as unilocular radiolucent lesions resembling other cystic and non-cystic lesions that can arise in this location.

This plain radiograph of an ameloblastoma shows a large lucent, expansile left mandibular lesion with cortical breach. Also note absent dentition and a floating 2nd lower molar. Case courtesy of Dr Matt Skalski, Radiopaedia.org. From the case rID: 23670