Giant-cell fibroma

Giant-cell fibroma
Synonyms
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Asymptomatic, papule or nodule in the oral cavity
Complications	N/A
Onset	Typically in young adults
Duration
Types
Causes	Unknown
Risks
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, histopathology
Differential diagnosis	Fibroma, papilloma, neurofibroma
Prevention
Treatment	Surgical excision
Medication
Prognosis	Excellent
Frequency	Relatively uncommon
Deaths	N/A

Giant-cell fibroma is a type of fibroma that is a benign non-neoplastic neoplasm or tumor-like growth in the oral cavity. It is often found on the gingiva or the tongue.

Etiology

The exact cause of giant-cell fibroma is unknown. However, it is believed to be a reactive lesion, possibly to trauma or irritation.

Clinical Features

Giant-cell fibroma usually presents as a small, painless, firm, and nodular growth. It is typically less than 1 cm in size and has a pink or white color. The surface of the lesion may be smooth or pebbled. It is most commonly found on the gingiva, followed by the tongue, palate, and buccal mucosa.

Histopathology

Histologically, giant-cell fibroma is characterized by the presence of large, stellate-shaped fibroblasts with multiple nuclei, known as giant cells. These cells are found in the connective tissue stroma, which is covered by a stratified squamous epithelium. The epithelium may show rete ridges, and the underlying connective tissue often has a dense inflammatory infiltrate.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of giant-cell fibroma is based on clinical and histopathological findings. Other conditions that may resemble giant-cell fibroma clinically include fibrous hyperplasia, neurofibroma, and squamous cell papilloma. Therefore, a biopsy is often necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

The treatment of choice for giant-cell fibroma is surgical excision. The prognosis is excellent, and recurrence is rare.

See Also

• Fibroma
• Oral pathology
• Oral and maxillofacial pathology