Autumn, 2004

The Autumn issue of E-PIE and October’s Case of the Month are dedicated to bone lesions, mostly of tooth origin. The latter are also known as odontogenic neoplasms, many of which are benign but locally aggressive, with a high recurrence rate requiring the clinician’s close attention. These neoplasms are histologically classified into three types of origin: ectodermal, mesenchymal and mixed. One of the most common neoplasms of ectodermal origin is ameloblastoma, which is discussed under Case of the Month and Clinical Case Discussion. Another important lesion that was previously believed to be of tooth origin is periapical cemental dysplasia. It is discussed under News in Brief to emphasize its distinct clinical presentation and the fact that it does not need to be treated. The October Case of the Month discusses the ameloblastomas with an emphasis on the solid type, while Clinical Case Discussion covers the three clinical types of ameloblastoma, focusing on the clinical behavior and treatment. Odontogenic neoplasms are slow-growing but persistent lesions and for that reason, early detection and proper treatment are advocated for optimum results for the patient. The Diagnostic Tests section of this issue covers the steps that yield a good biopsy results. Last but not least, this is a particularly important season, a season of Thanksgiving and so many other happy holidays. Hope you have good times.

Thank you, and have a Happy Fall!
Dolphine Oda, BDS, MSc
Oral Pathologist, University of Washington OMPS