Cherubism: An African-Focused Review.

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Pediatric Dentistry

Background:

• Cherubism is a rare, genetically heterogeneous fibro-osseous jaw disorder.
• Existing literature primarily focuses on non-African populations, with limited African data.
• Molecular confirmation in African cherubism cases is scarce.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize published African cherubism cases.
• To describe presentation patterns, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies.
• To assess the extent of genetic investigation in African cherubism.

Main Methods:

• Structured narrative literature review of PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and African Journals Online.
• Inclusion of peer-reviewed case reports and series on African cherubism patients.
• Data extraction on demographics, clinical/radiological/histological findings, management, and genetic testing.

Main Results:

• 14 studies reported 20 cases from 8 African countries, predominantly North Africa.
• Median age at presentation (13.75 years) suggests delayed healthcare access despite early childhood onset.
• Molecular genetic testing was reported in only 2 cases; diagnoses relied on clinical/radiological/histopathological features.

Conclusions:

• African cherubism literature is limited, geographically skewed, and lacks comprehensive genetic reporting.
• Delayed presentation, clinical diagnosis, and minimal molecular testing are recurring themes.
• Gaps in reporting and genetic characterization necessitate improved molecular diagnostics, multidisciplinary care, and African registries.