A UNIQUE STAR SHAPED PERIPHERAL OSSIFYING FIBROMA MIMICKING ORAL CARCINOMA : A RARE CASE REPORT

Introduction: The gingiva is often the site of localized growths that are considered to be reactive rather than neoplastic in nature. Peripheral ossifying fibroma is one such reactive lesion. This case report documents a case of a 15-year-old girl with a large peripheral ossifying fibroma in the posterior maxilla showing significant growth and interference with occlusion. Methods: Review of literature concerning etiology, pathogenesis and management of the resulting gingival enlargement is discussed. Conclusion: Many of these lesions are difficult to be identified clinically and can be identified as specific entity only on the basis of typical and consistent histomorphology. Surgical treatment of the POF in adolescents should be initiated soon, given the high recurrence rate, because although gingival enlargement that occurs can be treated, the alveolar bone loss is irreversible, compromising tooth supporting apparatus permanently.