Clinical Outcomes of Peri-Implant Peripheral Giant Cell Granuloma: A Report of Three Cases

Background: Peripheral giant cell granuloma (PGCG) is a reactive lesion that occurs on the gingiva or alveolar mucosa and contains numerous giant cells. Its recurrence rate is 10%. Only five cases associated with dental implants have been reported. This case report describes three additional cases with clinical courses and outcomes. Methods: Three women presented with a chief complaint of a gingival mass around the implants. The lesions were surgically excised under local anesthesia. Results: The initial diagnosis at presentation was pyogenic granuloma. Radiography showed marginal bone loss accompanying the lesions. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of PGCG. In two cases, several recurrences resulted in explantation of the fixture. One case healed uneventfully. Conclusions: Despite its usually benign clinical behavior, peri-implant PGCG may follow an aggressive course. Treatment planning for this condition should take into account the presence of recurrences to evaluate the necessity of an aggressive surgical approach that may involve advanced bone loss and explantation. Further research on the origin of this implant-associated condition with a larger series of cases is necessary to provide a basis for adequate management. J Periodontol 2009;80:1184-1191.