Central giant cell granulomas: A systematic review of the radiographic characteristics with the addition of 20 new cases

Objectives: The radiographic characteristics of central giant cell granuloma (CGCG) vary to a great extent. This study sought to relate the radiographic and clinical features of several cases, which were confirmed histopathologically, as central giant cell granulomas, and to systematically review the relevant literature. Methods: Twenty cases with an established histopathological diagnosis of CGCG were received from the Department of Oral Pathology. The correlation between any two categorical variables was tested using Chi-square or Fischer's test, with alpha=0.01. A systematic review of the literature was performed using electronic and manual searches. Results: There was no gender predominance. Nearly 81% of the lesions were located in the deciduous tooth bearing area of the mandible and in 35% of the cases the lesions crossed the midline. The correlation between the size of the lesion and its appearance was statistically significant with larger lesions assuming a multilocular appearance. Most lesions (55%) were radiolucent while wispy opacification and trabeculation was evident in 50% of the lesions. The borders of the lesions were well defined in 65% of the cases and scalloping was seen in 53%. Displacement of teeth and/or other anatomic structures was seen in 50% of the cases while root resorption was found in 37%. The lesions perforated the cortex in 50% of the cases. Two cases, presented with paresthesia of the lip. Conclusions: Central giant cell granuloma demonstrates clinical and radiographic features of a benign lesion with some aggressive characteristics.