Maxillary central giant cell granuloma: a case report with 31-year follow-up

Central giant cell granuloma (CGCG) is a benign bone lesion of unknown etiology that primarily affects the jaws, particularly the mandible. Clinically, CGCG can present in various forms, from small lesions to large, painful lesions. Radiographically, it appears as a radiolucent area; on histopathologic analysis, lesions show multiple giant cells. This case report describes an extensive CGCG in the maxilla of an 11-year-old girl who initially experienced painless swelling on the anterior hard palate. Clinical and radiographic examinations initially raised concerns of a possible malignancy, but incisional biopsy and histopathologic analysis established the diagnosis of CGCG. Following surgical removal of the lesion and prosthetic replacement of teeth extracted during lesion excision, the patient has remained healthy and recurrence-free for 31 years. Maxillary CGCG is an uncommon lesion, and its treatment depends on the particular clinical features. Regular, long-term monitoring is essential for detecting possible recurrence and to promote better understanding of the clinical behavior of this lesion.