A Case of Peripheral Osteoma in External Maxilla

Osteoma is a benign tumor characterized by proliferation of compact or cancellous bone that may form peripherally in a periosteal location or in central position. The most common site of the peripheral osteoma in the craniofacial area is the frontal sinus, and the extremely rare site is found to be in the external maxilla. Clinically, it appears round and shows slow growth without symptoms but its large size results in facial asymmetry, tenderness and swelling. Radiologically, peripheral osteoma appears as a well-circumscribed radiopacity and histologically shows proliferation of either compact or cancellous bone. The etiology of osteoma in maxilla is uncertain, but it has been suggested that they are frequently associated with infection or trauma. The treatment is surgical excision. We report a case of peripheral osteoma on the right anterior maxilla in 53-year-old female patient who complained of cheek discomfort and tenderness. Surgical excision was performed and the patient was followed up for 7 months without recurrence. Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg 2009;52:852-5 Key WordsZZOsteoma·Peripheral osteoma·Maxilla.