Peripheral giant cell granuloma: a clinical study of 77 cases from 62 patients, and literature review

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify the principle clinical features of the peripheral giant cell granuloma (PGCG), and to recognise clinical features of PGCG that are poorly defined.

Design: We reviewed retrospectively 77 cases of PGCG from 62 patients, from our files with respect to incidence, sex, patient age, race, clinical symptoms and signs, radiographic features and recurrence following excision.

Results and conclusions: Our results were largely in agreement with previous reports, although there is wide variation in the results published between series. In addition, some clinical features of PGCG are poorly defined. Little is known about the relative incidences of PGCG and central giant cell granuloma. An association between PGCG and tooth loss may exist, but is poorly defined, and not all PGCG that involve edentulous areas follow recent tooth loss. Information about PGCG recurrence after excision is limited, and does not necessarily follow incomplete excision. Despite the large number of reported cases of PGCG, clarification of some clinical features is required, and may help formulation and interpretation of future laboratory-based research into this poorly understood lesion.