Giant cell Granuloma

Histological comparison and a review

Abstract

Central giant cell granulomas (CGCG) constitute about 10% of benign jawbone lesions. Approximately one-third of CGCG exhibit local aggressive behavior with bone destruction and a tendency to recur.¹ Jaffe (1953) was the first to distinguish central giant cell granulomas (CGCG) of the jawbones from other giant cell lesions of bones and originally called them“central giant cell reparative granulomas” since they were believed to be a reactive-reparative process that might heal spontaneously.¹ Recently the World Health Organization has defined it as localized benign but sometimes aggressive osteolytic proliferation consisting of fibrous tissue with hemorrhage and haemosiderin depo­sits, presence of osteoclast-like giant cells and reactive bone formation. Many authors have established the differences with other lesions of giant cells. The clinical behavior of CGCG varies from a slowly asymptomatic swelling to an aggressive lesion that manifests with pain, cortical perforation, and root resorption.² On the other hand the peripheral giant cell granuloma is a reactive exophytic lesion of the gingiva and alveolar ridge that usually occurs as a result of local irritating factors such as plaque, calculus, chronic infection, chronic irritation, tooth extraction, inproperly finished filling, unstable dental prosthesis, and impacted food which originates from the periosteium or periodontal ligament.