Hamartomas, choristomas, and teratomas of the oral cavity: A 49-years cross-sectional study in an oral diagnostic service

Background: To investigate the incidence and demographic profile of hamartomatous, choristomatous, and teratoid lesions in a Brazilian population over a 49 years -period. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed, and data regarding demographic and clinical aspects were obtained from the medical records of a Brazilian referral center (1970-2019). The collected data were submitted to descriptive analysis and Pearson's chi-square, Fisher's exact, and Kruskal-Wallis tests (p <= 0.05). Results: In a total of 16,412 medical records analyzed, 300 (1.83 %) were hamartomatous, 2 (0.01 %) choristomatous, and 1 (0.01 %) teratoid lesions. Hamartomas were most diagnosed in females and adults. Statistical significance was observed between hamartoma and age group (p < 0.001). Odontoma was the most frequent hamartomatous lesion. In choristomatous and teratoid lesions, there was no occurrence in males. The jaws were the most affected anatomical site by hamartoma. Choristomas were observed on the mandible and tongue, while a teratoid lesion was seen on the floor of the mouth. Conclusions: Low occurrence of choristomatous and teratoid lesions over hamartomatous lesions and a heterogeneous occurrence profile regarding sex, age group, and anatomic site were observed. Hamartomas are relatively common and benign conditions that may cause damage and require special care during dental treatment. Thus, the dentist needs to be able to identify and treat them appropriately. Likewise, although choristomas and teratomas present no risk to patients and have a lower occurrence than hamartomas, they also require treatment. (c) 2024 Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.