Maxillary Osteoblastoma in a Child Mimicking Intraosseous Hemangioma: A Case Report

Abstract

Maxillary osteoblastoma in children is exceptionally rare, accounting for fewer than 5% of all craniofacial cases. This benign bone tumor can closely mimic intraosseous hemangioma both clinically and radiographically due to its highly vascular stroma, leading to diagnostic pitfalls. We report a 5-year-old girl whose maxillary lesion exhibited soft, fluctuant swelling, reddish discoloration, bleeding on touch, and post-extraction hemorrhage—features strongly suggestive of hemangioma. A multidisciplinary approach involving maxillofacial surgery, radiology, and pathology was essential for definitive diagnosis. This case underscores that osteoblastoma must remain in the differential diagnosis of vascular-appearing pediatric maxillary masses, and multidisciplinary collaboration is critical to avoid misdiagnosis.