Management of giant ameloblastoma in an African environment- report of 2 cases

ABSTRACT

Ameloblastoma of the jaws is a relatively common neoplasm in African population. Although, it is slow growth in characteristics, occasionally the tumour can reach a considerable size [giant] often described in African term as [second head] due to delay in presentation. This delay in presentation is due to a combination of poor socioeconomic background and beliefs of the patients. Treatment of this condition is usually a challenge to the surgeon in a developing country with minimal surgical facilities. Two cases of [Giant amelobla$toma]of the mandible are presented to illustrate the management of this condition in our environment. The result of the surgery was satisfactory. The overall aesthetics, physical, emotional, psychological well being, as well as quality of life of our patients were greatly enhanced