Background: Dentinogenic ghost cell tumours (DGCTs) are a rare subset of the odontogenic tumours. These DGCTs are described as ‘locally invasive neoplasms characterized by ameloblastoma-like islands of epithelial cells in a mature connective tissue stroma’. These lesions have been shown to behave more aggressively and have a higher recurrence rate than its less aggressive relative, the calcifying cystic odontogenic tumours (CCOTs).

Materials and methods: Two patients with DGCTs – both located within the right maxilla – presenting to one surgical unit, are described. The excised specimens were analysed using H&E and several immunohistochemical stains, including Ki-67.

Results: The tumour behaviour in the two patients differed. One tumour exhibited a more aggressive nature, necessitating a wider resection and complex reconstruction, compared to the other, where a simple excision sufficed. Morphologically, both tumours appeared similar. However, there were differences in the Ki-67 levels exhibited by each tumour.

Conclusion: The potential significance of Ki-67 as a possible marker to tumour aggressiveness, first proposed by Gong et al., is discussed in the light of clinical behaviour of these two cases.

Key words: Ki-67; dentinogenic ghost cell tumours