Comparative Immunohistochemical Analysis of Craniopharyngioma and Ameloblastoma: Insights into Odontogenic Differentiation.

Background And Objectives: Histopathological similarities between craniopharyngioma (CP) and ameloblastoma (AB) have long been recognized, particularly the shared features of palisading columnar epithelium and stellate reticulum-like areas. This study aimed to investigate potential odontogenic differentiation in CP akin to AB using immunohistochemical odontogenic markers.

Methods: We analyzed AMELX, ODAM, and CK19 expression in 44 cases (20 CP and 24 AB).

Results: While AMELX and ODAM showed diffuse strong positive expression in both tumors with no significant statistical differences, CK19 expression was notably higher in CP.

Conclusion: The markers AMELX and ODAM associated with odontogenic differentiation exhibited similar profiles in both tumors due to shared similar embryological origins. Notably, CK19, a biomarker of odontogenic epithelium, showed even higher expression, suggesting distinct pathways. These findings offer insights into tumor biology and may aid in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.