Multifocal central giant cell lesions of the maxillofacial skeleton: a case report

The classification of giant cell lesions of the maxillofacial skeleton is one that remains controversial. Classifying giant cell lesions of the jaw as granulomatous based solely on location seems inappropriate. The categories of benign or malignant are more realistic. Benign lesions may then be subdivided into aggressive and nonaggressive. Multifocal giant cell lesions strongly suggest the brown tumor of hyperparathyroidism. Serum chemistry tests including calcium, phosphorus, ionized calcium, and PTH levels should routinely be obtained when a giant cell lesion is suspected. A case of benign, aggressive, multifocal central giant cell lesions of the maxillofacial skeleton, in the absence of either primary or secondary hyperparathyroidism is presented. Whether this represents metastasis from the initial lesion, metabolic osteoclastic dysfunction, or a new entity, craniofacial giant cell dysplasia, is unknown.