Temporal bone odontogenic carcinoma with dentinoid involving the facial nerve: case report with literature review

Abstract Background Odontogenic carcinoma with dentinoid (OCD) is a rare, poorly characterised tumour not yet included in the WHO classification of head and neck tumours. We report a rare case of OCD involving the temporal bone. Case presentation A 35-year-old male presented with longstanding facial nerve paralysis and progressive hearing loss. Radiological investigation revealed an erosive mass in the temporal bone. The tumour was successfully resected, and definitive histopathological analysis showed a picture of OCD. The patient received adjuvant radiotherapy and remains under close surveillance for recurrence. Conclusions This case broadens the anatomical spectrum of OCD and highlights the need to consider odontogenic tumours in the differential diagnosis of temporal bone lesions, despite their rarity at this site.