Peripheral Odontogenic Myxoma: Report of Two New Cases with a Critical Review of the Literature

Abstract

Introduction: Odontogenic myxoma is a benign mesenchymal odontogenic tumor that is more frequently found in the mandibular molar region. The extra-osseous counterpart, called Peripheral Odontogenic Myxoma (POM), is an exceedingly rare entity and with very low aggressive potential. Methods: Clinical and radiographic findings are not specific, and difficulties may exist in differentiating histological findings of POM from other tumors with myxoid features, such as fibromas and oral focal mucinosis. Due to the fact that the presence of odontogenic epithelium is not required for the diagnosis, a myxoid lesion without odontogenic nests that develops in extraosseous position can be misdiagnosed with a soft tissue myxoma. Case Reports: We thereby present two cases of POM and conduct an extensive and critical review of the English literature, taking into consideration both certain and putative cases of POM.