A 10-year review of the occurrence and treatment of central giant cell granulomas, in a District General Hospital

Abstract

Background: There is considerable variation in the clinical presentation, behaviour and radiological appearance of central giant cell granulomas (CGCGs), for which multiple treatment modalities have been suggested.

Method: A 10-year retrospective review of the clinical presentation, radiological features and treatment received was undertaken.

Results: The cohort of patients included six males and three females, with an age range of 7-61 years. Six lesions were in the mandible and three in the maxilla. Eight lesions presented with swelling, three in relation to teeth. One case was an incidental finding. Six cases were confined within the cortical plates, one involved soft tissue. Radiological presentation was diverse, but within the existing confines of CGCGs. With one exception, primary treatment was surgical resection with excisional curettage of the remaining bone; to date, none have recurred.

Conclusion: Diagnosis relies on correct interpretation of clinical, radiographical and histopathological data. Alternative treatments are worthy of consideration, although surgical excision remains the treatment of choice.