Teen faces major jaw surgery after earache reveals rare, slow-growing aggressive tumour
Matthew Williams, 15, from NSW, was diagnosed with ameloblastoma, a rare aggressive jaw tumour, after an earache prompted imaging.
An earache that seemed routine turned into a serious diagnosis for Matthew Williams. The 15-year-old was initially treated for swimmer's ear but when symptoms persisted, a dentist's X-ray revealed a large mass in his jaw.
Further tests showed a rare, slow-growing but aggressive form of tumour known as ameloblastoma. The tumour has destroyed bone and tissue around his jaw.
The type of tumour is so rare it only accounts for one per cent of all jaw tumours and is usually only found in adults aged 30 to 40. Matthew is now preparing for major surgery that will involve removing a piece of bone from his leg to reconstruct his jaw.
Recovery could take six to 12 months.
- 15 years old
- Patient age
- 30 to 40 years old
- Typical age for tumour
- One per cent
- Percentage of jaw tumours
- Six to 12 months
- Recovery timeframe
Why it mattersThe case highlights how rare cancers can hide behind common symptoms and how early detection through imaging can catch serious conditions.
AustraliaThe story shows a rare paediatric cancer diagnosis at John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle and the burden major reconstructive surgery places on NSW families.
Corroborated bythenightly.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
