Adenomatoid odontogenic tumor: An unusual presentation

Abstract

Adenomatoid odontogenic tumor (AOT) is considered to be an uncommon odontogenic tumor which
occurs most commonly in an unerupted maxillary canine. Some investigators consider it to be a benign
neoplasm, while others consider it to be a hamartomatous malformation due to its limited size and to the
lack of recurrence in most of the cases. The specific stimulus that triggers proliferation of progenitor cells
of AOT is unknown, as in case of all odontogenic tumors. As it is exclusively associated with an unerupted
or impacted tooth and the cytological resemblance to the dental lamina and enamel organ, it can be
considered as odontogenic in origin. The present case highlights the unusual presentation of AOT which
is not associated with an impacted or unerupted tooth.