Odontogenic myxoma of the maxilla: A rare case report and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION: Odontogenic myxoma (OM) is an uncommon benign odontogenic tumor arising from the jaw bone. The diagnosis poses a challenge because its clinical features overlap with those of other benign and malignant neoplasms. Although surgery is usually the choice treatment, there is still some controversy concerning surgical techniques and proper indications. CASE REPORT: We present the unusual case of an odontogenic myxoma involving the maxilla, diagnosed in a 31 years old patient presenting to our department for facial swelling through computed imaging and pathological analysis. After careful consideration, the patient was treated with conservative surgery, with a satisfying end result. DISCUSSION: Because of its slow growth, odontogenic myxoma is often asymptomatic. The diagnosis is based on clinical, radiological and histological caracteristics. Complete surgical excision is the treatment of choice, but it can be challenging because of the tumor's indistinct margins. CONCLUSION: Though there are still no clear guidelines for the management of OM in the head and neck region, the general consensus is that the surgical excision should be complete, and patients treated in a conservative manner should benefit from regular follow-ups.