A Discussion of Some Advancements and Some Persistent Difficulties in the Recognition and Understanding of the Histopathologic and Molecular Features of Selected Odontogenic Tumors and Tumor-like Malformations

Overgrowths of epithelial, ectomesenchymal, and/or mesenchymal elements of the tooth-forming apparatus are quite variable with respect to their histopathologic characteristics and biological behaviors. Investigations of a variety of odontogenic lesions have led to an enhanced comprehension of many salient diagnostic features. This discussion provides an update with respect to the understanding of odontogenic tumors and tumor-like malformations and attempts to assist pathologists in the recognition and classification of these lesions.