Elephantiasis gingivae: A report of a rare clinical presentation

Abstract

Introduction: Elephantiasis Gingivae otherwise known as Heriditary gingival fibromatosis, Idiopathic gingival fibromatosis, is a very rare clinical condition characterized by local or diffuse enlargement of the gingiva. It is usually benign, painless, slow in growth, fibrous and may involve marginal gingiva, attached gingiva and interdental papilla. The gingiva tissue appears normal in color, non-hemorrhagic, firm and has a characteristic “pebbled” appearance with accentuation of its stippling. Case presentation: This report aimed to present a case of a 14years old girl who presented with a complaint of gingival swelling for a period of four years. There was no history of similar swelling in the family, no prior drug history of significance. The patient was totally dependent of semisolid and liquid diet as the teeth were embedded in the gingiva. Esthetics was the primary concern of the patient despite the fact that there was difficulty in taking solid food. Gingivectomy was done under general anesthesia. Conclusion: Surgical approach under general anesthesia may be considered when the size and posterior extent of the gingival swelling are enormous to avoid incomplete surgical excision which may contribute to early recurrence. Limitation: The long term success of the intervention could not be ascertained as the patient was lost to follow-up after one month.