[Mast cell counting in fibrous gingival hyperplasias and giant cell granuloma]

Mast cells are the normal components of the connective tissues and they are found particularly in perivascular areas. They have a primary role in hypersensitivity reactions and inflamatuar process. They are found in whole healthy and inflamed periodontal tissues. Number of mast cells increase in some connective tissue tumors. However the roles of mast cells in fibrous gingival hyperplasias and giant cell granulomas of gingiva, is not clear. In this study, the number of mast cells were counted in both lesion groups. Numbers of mast cells were found increased on gingival fibrous hyperplasias, comparing to normal connective tissues and giant cell granulomas.