Oral and Maxillofacial Tumours and Tumour Like Lesions: A 10 Years Review of Cases at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital

Abstract Background: Oral and maxillofacial swellings are relatively common, very diverse and complex. They can be found in the maxilla, mandible and related soft tissues and facial skin. We audit cases of tumour and tumour-like lesions over 10 years period at the tertiary health facility, to provide baseline data and for comparison with other studies. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study conducted using a 10-year patient’s record that presented to our facility with tumour and tumour-like lesions. The information retrieved comprises demographics, location of the lesion, histopathological diagnosis and tumour type. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS version 23; IBM SPSS 23 Chicago, Illinois, USA). Results: A total of 333 patients were reviewed, mean age of 31.57 years and Female: male (1.25:1). Benign lesions accounted for 262 (78.7%) of cases with a mean age of 28.34. Mandible was the most common site affected (38.1%), and ameloblastoma was the most common benign tumour in 56 (16.8%) of the cases. Fibrous dysplasia and ossifying fibroma are the most common benign non-odontogenic tumours (19 cases) each. Pleomorphic adenoma and mucoepidermoid carcinoma are the most common benign and malignant salivary gland tumours, respectively. Dentigerous cyst was the most common cystic lesion, whereas squamous cell carcinoma was the most common malignant tumour and the second-most common tumour in this study. Conclusion: This study confirmed findings from most previous studies. However, contrarily, a female preponderance was observed in this study, and the high prevalence of malignant tumours recorded, calls for extensive awareness and preventive measures campaigns at the community and legislative level.