Evaluation of microvessel density in central and peripheral giant cell granulomas

Abstract

Background: Angiogenesis in the physiological status, balance is maintained between the pro- and anti-angiogenic factors and it is required for a tumor to grow beyond 1-2 mm in diameter. In central giant cell granuloma (CGCG) and peripheral giant cell granuloma (PGCG) the origin of giant cells, clinicopathological features overlap, but still there is a difference in the biological behavior. We aimed to assess the possible role of angiogenesis and presence of macrophages by the expression of CD34 and CD68 respectively. Materials and Methods: Eighty cases each consisting of each forty CGCG and PGCG were evaluated clinically and immunohistochemically using CD34 and CD 68. Microvessel density (MVD) was expressed as the mean of blood vessels and macrophages in four high-power-fields. Statistical analysis was performed using Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U-tests. Results: The peak incidence of 21-30 years and 31-40 years was seen in CGCG’s and PGCG’s respectively with a statistical significant difference. Both groups showed female predominance with posterior mandible and maxilla being the common site. Number of mononuclear cells was more in the CGCG than PGCG with an ovoid morphology. CD34 positive microvessels and macrophages were more in CGCG compared to PGCG with statistically significant difference. Conclusion: Clinicopathological features were similar to the previous studies. Statistically significant difference was evident in the MVD and macrophages in CGCG and PGCG. This new data about the microvessel count in the CGCG and PGCG adds to the literature. Importance of angiogenesis can add insight to the clinical behavior and also in understanding its histogenesis.