[Maxilla-mandibular brown tumors as a first sign of parathyroid adenoma]

Through a novel observation of parathyroid adenoma revealed by brown tumors of the jaws and a review of the literature, the authors describe this rare mode of primary hyperparathyroidism discovery.

The patient was a 23-year-old woman who consulted for a recurrent tumefaction of the maxillary; histology showed reparative giant cell granuloma.

The clinical examination found an osseous tumefaction in continuity with the zygomatic bone and a gingival tumefaction on the mandible symphysis. The radiological findings showed two osteophytic lesions: mandibular and maxillary. The phosphocalcic metabolism was disturbed and the parathormone rate was high. The etiologic search consisted of a MRI of the neck, which showed a mass behind the thyroid gland, suggesting a parathyroid adenoma. The diagnosis was confirmed at surgical exploration. After removal of this tumor, the blood calcium rate dropped sharply and the bone tumefaction progressively regressed.

Brown tumors are a rare mode of parathyroid adenoma discovery, and the jaw location is exceptional. The diagnosis is based on the parathormone rate, and radiological exams generally find the etiology. Treatment is based on surgery of the parathyroid adenoma.