The True History of Cementoblastoma

Head Neck Pathol. 2023 Jun;17(2):528-533. doi: 10.1007/s12105-022-01499-6. Epub 2023 Feb 1.

Abstract

Cementoblastoma (CB) is unique among odontogenic tumors because its gross pathological anatomy is pathognomonic in most cases, i.e., a rounded calcified growth that is fused to the root of a tooth and completely encapsulated by fibrous tissue. The resulting radiographic appearance is a well-defined, globular mixed radiopaque/lucent or completely radiopaque mass obliterating some details of the root, with a thin radiolucent zone surrounding the central opacity. Although hundreds of publications have covered the clinicopathologic features of CB, almost nothing is known about its true history. Also it seems there is little understanding about how the term "CB" was originally introduced as a pathologic entity. This report covers some overlooked papers on CB dating back to the 19th century, including the first complete description in 1888 and the first radiographic presentation in 1906.

Keywords: Cemento-osseous dysplasia; Cemento-ossifying fibroma; Cementoblastoma; Cementoma; Hypercementosis.

MeSH terms

  • Cementoma* / pathology
  • Humans
  • Odontogenic Tumors* / pathology