A review of paediatric maxillofacial bone pathology

Maxillofacial bone pathology presents challenges related to its rarity and unique histomorphology, resulting from complex indigenous anatomical components, including odontogenic tissues, native bone and soft tissue. In the paediatric population, this is further compounded by the presence of developing tooth germs, with their unique histological features. Overlapping histological appearances of developing tooth germ components with odontogenic tumours, and between reactive processes and fibro-osseous/bone tumours are common challenges, necessitating knowledge of both the normal histology and the range of neoplastic, inflammatory and reactive processes occurring in this anatomical area. Erroneous diagnosis and limited clinicopathological correlation can result in inappropriate management, which may impact aesthetics, function and growth of developing maxillofacial bones. An overview of developmental, neoplastic, cystic and inflammatory lesions of paediatric maxillofacial bones is presented and diagnostic pitfalls discussed.