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Updated: Nov 3, 2025
Author Spotlight: Unlocking the Mysteries of Oral Potential Malignancies
Published on: August 11, 2023
Langerhans cell histiocytosis in the oral and maxillofacial region: An update
Isabel Schausltz Pereira Faustino1, Patrícia Maria Fernandes1, Hélder Antônio Rebelo Pontes2
1Department of Oral Diagnosis, Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas, Piracicaba, Brazil.
Background:
Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare disorder characterized by abnormal proliferation and infiltration of histiocytic cells.
Methods:
This review focused on the main aspects associated with LCH.
Results:
LCH can involve single or multiple organs and systems, with bone and skin being the most commonly affected sites. Regarding skeletal manifestations, the jawbones are involved in about 20%-30% of all cases. Such lesions may present as unilocular or multilocular images mainly affecting the posterior mandible. Oral soft tissue lesions may also occur, with the gingiva and hard palate being the most frequently affected sites.
Conclusion:
The diagnosis and management of LCH are challenging, requiring a multidisciplinary approach, with dentists playing a central role since oral manifestations can be the first sign of the condition.
