Abstract

Background and Clinical Significance: Odontogenic myxoma (OM) is a rare benign neoplasm of the jawbones characterized by spindle-shaped cells embedded in a myxoid stroma. Despite its benign histological nature, it demonstrates locally aggressive behavior, significant invasiveness, and a high risk of recurrence. OM ranks as the third most common odontogenic tumor after odontoma and ameloblastoma. It affects both sexes and occurs more frequently in the mandible than in the maxilla, typically during the second to fourth decades of life. Macroscopically, OM is non-encapsulated, whitish-gray, and gelatinous. Radiographically, it usually presents as a radiolucent lesion with fine bony trabeculae, producing a characteristic “tennis racket” appearance. Case Presentation: We report a case of a 27-year-old male diagnosed with maxillary odontogenic myxoma measuring 2.3 × 1.7 cm. Clinical, radiographic, and histopathological findings were evaluated, and the lesion was treated conservatively by surgical enucleation and curettage. Results: The surgical procedure was completed without complications. Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of odontogenic myxoma. The patient showed satisfactory postoperative healing, and no evidence of recurrence was observed during a 10-month follow-up period. Conclusions: Although odontogenic myxoma is benign, its locally aggressive nature and recurrence potential require accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. Conservative treatment by enucleation and curettage may be effective for small, well-defined lesions, provided that careful long-term follow-up is maintained to monitor for recurrence.

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