Prevalence and imaging findings in central giant cell granuloma—retrospective study

Abstract

Objective

Central giant cell granuloma (CGCG) is a benign neoplasm of the jaw that can be locally aggressive. Investigating the detailed prevalence and radiographic features will broaden our understanding of this entity, further helping us narrow the diagnosis in ambiguous cases.

Study Design

This study retrospectively reviewed histologically proven CGCG cases from January 2011 to June 2023. This study was conducted in the Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, University of Florida College of Dentistry. Patients from both University of Florida Health Science Center and Shands Hospital were included in the data collection. Demographic data, clinical, radiographic features, surgical management and recurrence were evaluated and recorded.

Results

In the time interval, 16 cases with biopsy-proven CGCG cases were included. The mean age was 19.7 years, with a predilection for female (87%). 75% of the cases were in the mandible, with 85% of these cases seen in the posterior region. In total, 88% of the lesions were multilocular and root resorption was noted in 50% of the cases. Expansion and thinning of the cortices was seen in all, with effacement seen in 85% of the cases. Enucleation and curettage were the most commonly reported treatment. Recurrence was seen in one case, whereas a new lesion developed in a different location in one of the cases. There an increased association between the location of the lesion and the locularity. Posterior lesions were more likely to have multilocular appearance.

Conclusion

CGCG is a rare benign neoplasm that is primarily seen in young patients. It is more common in patients under 30 with a female predilection. Posterior lesions were more likely to be multilocular.