Challenges in diagnosis and treatment of recurrent ameloblastic carcinoma in the maxilla: case report and narrative review of current literatures

Ameloblastic carcinoma (AC) is a malignant transformation of benign ameloblastoma originating from epithelial cells of tooth enamel and has the potential for metastasis. A 42-year-old male experienced three recurrences of AC and hospitalized for surgical treatment. He was initially diagnosed as maxillary nasal sinus squamous cell carcinoma. However, the patient experienced a third recurrence, and additional examinations revealed the diagnosis of AC. The patient underwent right subtotal maxillectomy through Weber Ferguson incision with Dieffenbach extension. Followed by a post-operative radiotherapy course. This case report discusses the histopathological findings and current challenges of diagnosing and managing the recurrent AC. The findings suggest that the use of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or a combination to surgical interventions is still restricted. Evidence available is insufficient to draw definitive conclusions regarding their safety and efficacy of different treatment modalities in AC treatment.