The desmoplastic variant is a rare form which represents about 4 - 5 % of all ameloblastomas. A few number of studies in the literature have reported “hybrid lesions" which show features of both desmoplastic and conventional ameloblastoma. In this report, we introduce a novel case of hybrid desmoplastic/follicular ameloblastoma of the maxilla, presenting its clinical, radiographic and histopathological features. It has been reported that the desmoplastic variant has a more aggressive behavior than conventional ameloblastoma, owing to its predilection to expand into a large size when affecting the maxilla and the tendency to early invade the surrounding structures
Despite the rarity of desmoplastic ameloblastoma and “hybrid ameloblastoma", they should be included in the differential diagnosis of slowly growing lesions especially those in the anterior and premolar regions of the jaw. Careful radiographic investigation and accurate histopathological examination of properly taken incisional biopsies will help in providing patients with the best therapeutic option and avoiding waste of time and cost associated with misdiagnosis.