Peripheral giant cell granuloma. A report of five cases and review of the literature

Peripheral giant cell granuloma (PGCG) is a relatively frequent benign reactive lesion of the oral cavity, originating from the periosteum or periodontal membrane following local irritation or chronic trauma. PGCG manifests as a red-purple nodule located in the region of the gums or edentulous alveolar margins, fundamentally in the lower jaw. The lesion can develop at any age, though it is more common between the fifth and sixth decades of life, and shows a slight female predilection. PGCG is a soft tissue lesion that very rarely affects the underlying bone, though the latter may suffer superficial erosion. The present study reviews 5 cases of PGCG, involving 3 males and 2 females between 19-66 years of age, and with presentation in the upper jaw in three cases. Two patients showed radiological concave depression images corresponding to bone resorption. Treatment consisted of resection and biopsy, using a carbon dioxide laser in 2 cases and a cold scalpel in the remaining 3. There were no relapses during postoperative follow-up (range 10 months to 4 years). The differential diagnosis of PGCG includes lesions with very similar clinical and histological characteristics, such as central giant cell granuloma, which are located within the jaw itself and exhibit a more aggressive behavior. Only radiological evaluation can establish a distinction. The early and precise diagnosis of these lesions allows conservative management without risk to the adjacent teeth or bone.