Adamantoma is a rare tumor that occurs primarily in the skull and jawbones. The word adamantoma is pronounced /ˌædəˈmæntoʊmə/ using IPA phonetic transcription. The spelling of the word is derived from the Greek word "adamantos" which means "invincible." This is due to the fact that these tumors are highly resistant to treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Proper diagnosis and treatment of adamantoma require specialized medical attention and care, and is best managed by a multi-disciplinary team of healthcare professionals.
Adamantoma is a medical term referring to a rare, benign tumor that predominantly occurs in the jaw or facial bones. Specifically, an adamantoma typically originates in the mandible, a lower jaw bone, or in the maxilla, an upper jaw bone. It is characterized by its slow growth and tendency to affect individuals in their second or third decade of life.
This type of tumor is categorized as a benign fibro-osseous lesion, implying that it involves the formation of excessive fibrous tissue and bone within the affected area. Usually, adamantomas arise as a result of an abnormal development of cells in the jawbone, leading to an overgrowth of tissue and bone. Although generally non-cancerous, these tumors can pose various clinical challenges due to their potential to invade surrounding structures and cause disfigurement or functional impairments.
The symptoms of an adamantoma may include facial swelling, pain, or loose teeth, depending on the size and exact location of the tumor. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical imaging techniques, such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), as well as a biopsy to confirm the nature and composition of the tumor. Treatment options for adamantomas can vary, but they often involve surgical removal of the tumor, which may be followed by reconstructive surgery to restore the appearance and functionality of the jawbone. In some cases, additional treatments such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy may be considered.
Adamantinoma.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.