Clinical Presentation and Management of Peripheral Giant Cell Granulomas in Children: 2 Cases Report

Objective(s): Peripheral giant cell granuloma (PGCG) is a reactive, proliferative, exophytic lesion developing on the gingiva and alveolar ridge, originating from the periosteum or periodontal membrane. The lesion develops mostly in adults, commonly in the lower jaw, with slight female predilection although is uncommon in children. Cases Report: Two boys, 11 and 8-years-old respectively, otherwise healthy, presented with gingival exophytic lesions in our clinic. In the first case the lesion was located in the right maxilla and appeared 4 months ago, whereas in the second case the fast growing lesion was located in the mandible and appeared 2 months ago. The lesions were red-blue enlargements, irregular and elliptical in shape respectively, soft to firm on palpation. Based on clinical examination, the initial diagnosis was assumed to be a type of reactive hyperplasia. OPG and CBCT showed no evidence of bone pathology. Blood, biochemical and hormonal investigations were within the normal values. Both lesions were surgically removed and histological examination established the diagnosis of PGCG. 4 consecutive follow ups have been done, with no evidence of recurrence. Conclusion: This uncommon lesion in children should be included in the differential diagnosis of reactive hyperplasia. The treatment of PGCG comprises surgical resection, along with suppression of the underlying etiologic factors.