M27.1

Clinical Causes: The exact cause of central giant cell granuloma remains unknown. Some theories suggest an abnormal response to trauma or a reactive process to local irritation or inflammation. Genetic factors may play a role, as cases sometimes run in families. Presence of local bone lesions or other jaw abnormalities could be contributing factors.

Key Symptoms: Gradual swelling or a lump in the jaw area. Pain or tenderness in the affected region. Loosening or displacement of teeth near the lesion. Changes in jaw shape or asymmetry. In some cases, the lesion may be discovered incidentally during dental imaging before symptoms appear. In rare instances, ulceration of the overlying mucosa.

Diagnosis Path: A thorough clinical examination by a dental or medical professional. Imaging studies such as panoramic radiographs, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), or CT scans to assess the size and location of the lesion. Biopsy of the lesion to obtain tissue samples for histopathological examination—this confirms the presence of multinucleated giant cells within a fibrous stroma, characteristic of the granuloma. Differentiation from other similar lesions, such as aneurysmal bone cysts or giant cell tumors, based on histopathology and imaging.

Treatment Protocols: Surgical curettage, which involves scraping out the lesion from the bone. Enucleation, where the lesion is carefully removed in one piece. Peripheral ostectomy, to remove adjacent bone tissue potentially affected or to reduce recurrence risk. In larger or recurring cases, more extensive surgical procedures, such as resection, may be necessary. Adjunctive therapies such as corticosteroid injections or calcitonin therapy have been explored to manage inoperable or recurrent lesions, though their use is not standard. Regular follow-up imaging, typically every 6 to 12 months, to monitor for recurrence as these lesions can sometimes return after treatment.