Classification of Giant Cell Lesions of the Oral Cavity: A Fresh Perspective

Introduction: Multinucleated giant cells are often encountered in oral lesions. An understanding of the histogenesis of these giant cells can give us an insight on the pathologic process in progress. Traditional classifications have placed little importance on the type or histogenesis of multinucleated giant cells in grouping these lesions. Objectives: (a) To classify giant cell lesions based on the type and histogenesis of giant cells. (b) Tp establish the rationale for the proposed classification by reviewing recent research evidences with respect to histogenesis of multinucleated giant cells and related oral lesions. Materials and methods: Scientific databases (PubMed and Google scholar) were searched for the literature using key words – giant cells, oral lesions, and histogenesis. Relevant articles were selected for review. A descriptive review was done. Results: Giant cells lesions were classified based on the type of giant cells present. The rationale for this classification was based on the recent research findings regarding the histogenesis of giant cells. Giant cells containing oral lesions were broadly identified as: • Epithelial-derived viral-induced multinucleated giant cell containing lesions • Monocyte/macrophage-derived giant cell containing lesions • Tumors with giant cells. Conclusion: The presence and the characteristic morphologic patterns of multinucleated giant cells are pathognomonic in the formation of giant cell lesions. An awareness regarding the biological mechanisms involved in the formation of these lesions is important for the prompt diagnosis and appropriate management of these lesions.