AMELOBLASTIC FIBROMA IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS: FROM DIAGNOSIS TO LONG-TERM FOLLOW-UP

Abstract

Introduction: Ameloblastic fibroma (AF) is an uncommon benign mixed odontogenic neoplasm that predominantly affects individuals in their first two decades of life, with a higher prevalence in the posterior region of the mandible. In pediatric dentistry, this lesion interferes with craniofacial growth, odontogenesis, and the eruption of permanent teeth. Objective: To analyze the clinical, imaging, and histopathological characteristics of ameloblastic fibroma in childhood, as well as to evaluate conservative therapeutic approaches, recurrence rates, and the importance of long-term follow-up. Methodology: This is a qualitative integrative literature review. Data collection was carried out in the PubMed, SciELO, and LILACS/BVS databases using the descriptors "Ameloblastic Fibroma", "Pediatric Dentistry", "Odontogenic Tumors", and "Oral Surgery". Original articles, case reports, and reviews published between 2016 and 2026 were included. Results: The lesion exhibits slow and asymptomatic growth, usually discovered incidentally or due to complaints of facial asymmetry and delayed tooth eruption. Radiographically, it appears as a well-demarcated radiolucent image associated with impacted teeth. Surgical enucleation with curettage is the conservative treatment of choice in children, favoring bone remodeling and tooth germ preservation. However, the literature reports local recurrence rates of around 18% and a risk of malignant transformation to ameloblastic fibrosarcoma in successive recurrences. Conclusion: Conservative surgical treatment is effective and indicated in pediatric dentistry; however, it requires a strict clinical and radiographic follow-up protocol for at least 5 to 10 years for the early detection of recurrences.