Pulmonary metastasectomy in the treatment of recurrent ameloblastoma of the maxilla and mandible: a case report

Ameloblastoma is an aggressive benign tumor with frequent local recurrences . Although histologically benign, it occasionally metastasizes to many orga ns, most commonly to the lungs. The metastasis develops after multiple recu rrences and many unsuccessful attempts at removal of the tumor. When distan t metastasis occurs, the prognosis is poor and there is no effective treatm ent. A case of metastatic ameloblastoma of the mandible and maxilla is repo rted which was treated with pulmonary metastasectomy. The treatment options are discussed in relation to the literature.