Prevalence of BRAF p.V600E and Detection Methods in Benign Mixed and Malignant Odontogenic Tumors: A Systematic Review

Background: The BRAF p.V600E genetic variant facilitates the pathogenesis of various tumors by triggering tumor proliferation and progression. The aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence of BRAF p.V600E in benign mixed epithelial and mesenchymal and malignant odontogenic tumors. In addition, we discussed the different detection methods used to assess for aberrant BRAF. Methods: This systematic review followed the PRISMA guidelines and was registered in Prospero (CRD42023445689). A comprehensive search of the PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase electronic databases was performed to answer the question “What is the prevalence of the BRAF p.V600E mutation in benign mixed and malignant odontogenic tumors?” The methodological quality of the selected studies was assessed using the JBI’s Critical Appraisal Tool. Results: Initially, 387 records were identified, but only 11 articles met the inclusion criteria. A total of 70 patients with benign mixed epithelial and mesenchymal odontogenic tumors and 63 with malignant odontogenic tumors were included in the analysis. We found that the BRAF p.V600E mutation had a prevalence of 31.42% in mixed tumors and 26.98% in malignant odontogenic tumors. Moreover, immunohistochemistry showed high concordance with DNA-based molecular methods. Conclusion: In general, the BRAF p.V600E variant exhibited a prominent prevalence in mixed and malignant odontogenic tumors. However, most of the findings are based on small cohorts of patients and further studies with larger cohorts are needed.