A comprehensive analysis of odontogenic tumors according to recent WHO (2022) classification: An institution-based retrospective study.

Abstract

Background: Odontogenic tumors constitute a rare group of lesions with diverse characteristics originating from tooth-forming tissues, primarily within the maxillofacial region. Variations in incidence across populations in India and with changes incorporated in successive World Health Organization (WHO) classifications, necessitate continued research to understand their epidemiology.

Objective: This retrospective study aims to provide an extensive analysis of Odontogenic tumors reported in a dental institute in Gujarat, India, using the 5^th edition of the WHO classification. The study also seeks to compare the findings with data from other regions.

Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on archived histopathological records from the Oral Pathology department of our institute, spanning from 1966 to 2023. This analysis focused on demographic details, tumor types, and their distribution. The data were reclassified according to the WHO 5^th edition and subjected to descriptive statistical analysis.

Results: Among 10,907 biopsies, 501 cases (4.6%) were diagnosed as Odontogenic tumors, with 97.6% being benign. Benign epithelial tumors, predominantly Ameloblastoma (68.9%) was most common. Supporting their rare occurrence malignant cases included Ameloblastic carcinoma (2.2%) and Clear Cell Odontogenic Carcinoma (0.2%). An overall male predominance (51.7%) was noted, with female dominance in Adenomatoid Odontogenic tumor (60%), Cemento-Ossifying Fibroma (62.5%), Odontogenic fibroma (91%), and Odontogenic Myxoma (66.7%). Most cases occurred in the third decade (27.1%), with a notable mandibular predominance (78%).

Conclusion: The findings contribute to the understanding of Odontogenic tumors epidemiology, emphasizing the importance of further regional studies and adapting to evolving classifications for accurate assessments and cross-population comparisons.