Ameloblastic Carcinoma of the Jaws: A Comprehensive Review of its Current Perspectives and Emerging Trends

Ameloblastic carcinoma (AC) is a rare, aggressive cancer of the jaw exhibiting both benign and malignant features. It is more common in males and usually affects the mandible, presenting as a rapidly progressing, painful or painless swelling with ulceration and bone destruction. This review aims to compile current knowledge on AC, emphasizing the importance of follow-up and standardized reporting. It addresses its prevalence, clinical presentation, diagnostic approaches, treatment options, long-term outcomes and existing challenges, and suggests directions for future research and management strategies. We conducted a literature search on databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from database inception to July 2025. The search included terms such as “ameloblastic carcinoma,” “jaw tumors,” and “oral malignancies.” Articles written in English, including case reports, reviews, and original studies, were reviewed. AC accounts for 1–3% of jaw tumors. It affects men more and often occurs in people in their 5 th –6 th decades of life, mainly in the mandible. Diagnosis is based on signs, imaging, tissue samples, and laboratory tests such as Ki-67, p53, and SOX2. Surgical resection with wide margins is the primary treatment. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy may be needed if the tumor spreads. The 5-year survival is between 60% and 70%, but this drops if the cancer occurs in the upper jaw. AC is difficult to manage because it is rare and can act unpredictably. We need more studies, consistent reporting, and collaboration between medical centers to improve the understanding and treatment of this disease.