Recurrent odontogenic ghost cell carcinoma (OGCC) at a reconstructedfibular flap: A case report with immunohistochemical findings

ABSTRACT

Odontogenic ghost cell carcinoma (OGCC), a malignant counterpart of the odontogenic ghost cell tumor (OGCT),with aggressive growth characteristics, is exceedingly rare. A painful swelling in the jaw with local paresthesia isthe most common symptom.We described a case of 47-year Korean woman who had a rare central epithelial odontogenic ghost cell carcinomawhich recurred at reconstructed fibular flap. Immunohistochemical differences between OGCT and OGCC analyzedusing primary and recurred surgical specimen. On the basis of this case, the tumor started as an OGCT andtransformed into OGCC with highly aggressive, rapidly growing, infiltrative tumors. Our findings suggest thatsome of the cytokines produced by ghost cells may play important roles in causing extensive bone resorption inthe odontogenic ghost cell carcinoma.Wide local excision with histologically clean margins is the treatment mode of selection. Also, we recommendclose long-term surveillance of OGCT because of high recurrence and potential for malignancy transformation (AU)