Esthetic management of peripheral giant cell granuloma.

BACKGROUND: Peripheral giant cell granuloma (PGCG) is a relatively rare hyperplastic lesion of the oral cavity. The lesion occurs in females more frequently than males and more often in the mandible than the maxilla. Although the precise etiology of PGCG is unknown, it might represent a local reaction to trauma or irritation.

METHODS: In general, treatment requires a wide excision of the lesion due to its possible recurrence.

RESULTS: This report describes the clinical and histopathological findings of PGCG diagnosed in the maxilla of a young male, as well as the successful treatment of a gingival defect that occurred following excision of the lesion, by placement of a subepithelial connective tissue graft concurrently with the biopsy procedure.

CONCLUSIONS: This report emphasizes the importance of having histopathological data to confirm the clinical diagnosis, and the importance of an adequate excision to prevent recurrence even in less extensive cases.