Otolaryngology Case Reports · Published 2026-06-29 · DOI 10.1016/j.xocr.2026.100760
H. Boudhar, Fadoua El Mourabit, M. Lahjaouj, M. Loudghiri, W. Bijou, Y. Oukessou, R. Abada, S. Rouadi, M. Roubal, M. Mahtar
Introduction: Odontogenic myxoma is a rare benign intraosseous tumor of mesenchymal origin, accounting for approximately 3–6% of odontogenic tumors. Despite its benign histology, it is characterized by a locally aggressive behavior and a significant risk of recurrence. Its occurrence in the pediatric population is exceptional, posing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to the lack of standardized management guidelines. Case report: We report the case of a 17-month-old girl presenting with a two-week history of progressive swelling of the left maxillary region. Clinical examination revealed a firm, non-tender mass measuring approximately 3 cm, without associated inflammatory signs. CT imaging demonstrated an expansile osteolytic lesion of the left maxilla with cortical bone erosion. The patient underwent surgical excision through a sublabial approach combined with peripheral osteotomies. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses confirmed the diagnosis of odontogenic myxoma. The postoperative course was uneventful. After more than six months of follow-up, no clinical evidence of recurrence was observed, and facial growth remained unaffected. Discussion: Odontogenic myxoma is an uncommon tumor in children, often presenting as an asymptomatic lesion detected on imaging. Diagnosis relies on a combination of radiological and histopathological findings. Treatment strategies remain controversial, ranging from conservative approaches to radical resections. While aggressive surgery may reduce recurrence, it is associated with significant morbidity, particularly in pediatric patients. Conservative techniques, including enucleation with peripheral osteotomies, may offer a balanced approach in selected cases. Long-term follow-up is essential due to the potential for recurrence. Conclusion: Odontogenic myxoma in pediatric patients requires a tailored, multidisciplinary approach. Conservative surgical management may be effective while minimizing morbidity, but standardized treatment protocols are lacking. Prolonged follow-up is mandatory to detect recurrence and optimize outcomes.
Abstract from DOAJ. Public domain (CC0 1.0).
Read the article at the publisher →
Boudhar, H., Mourabit, F., Lahjaouj, M., et al. (2026). Odontogenic myxoma in early childhood: Toward tailored surgical strategies. Otolaryngology Case Reports. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xocr.2026.100760