“Ameloblastoma” – A survey on the need for a multidisciplinary research approach to this biological enigma

Abstract

Background:  Ameloblastoma is a strange clinic-histologic contradiction, with an aggressive clinical behavior and benign histological feature.  Enamel organ responsible for the physiological tooth formation is equally responsible for extensive contributions to Oral pathologies.  These pathological processes and conditions range from simple periodontal cyst to odontogenictumours
Methodology:  This is a survey in multidisciplinary research approach to the study of ameloblastoma in the College of Medical Sciences, University of Benin.  This survey was interactive through telephone calls and direct interview.  Interaction was with 39 doctors, made up of 13 maxillofacial surgeons, 21 doctors in physiology and 5 doctors in medical biochemistry.
Result:  Out of 39 doctors interviewed, 5 (12.8%) maxillofacial surgeons, 8 (20.5%) physiologists and 3 (7.7%) medical biochemists indicated their interest to participate in the in vitro studies 16 (41%).
Conclusion:  We conclude that multidisciplinary approach to ameloblastoma research is over due.
Recommendation:  We therefore recommend a joint investigation of this enigma.