GIANT CELL FIBROMA: 10-YEAR SURVEY IN AN ORAL PATHOLOGY SERVICE

Abstract

Giant cell fibroma (GCF) is a benign mesenchymal neoplasm with distinct characteristics from the conventional fibroma. Clinically it presents as a nodular lesion with a smooth or papillary surface. Microscopically, it is observed a proliferation of stellate fibroblasts in a stroma of loose connective tissue, whereas the epithelium is often atrophic or with thin elongated projections. It is a rare lesion and its prevalence is not clear in the literature. Objective: To perform a GCF survey in an oral pathology service during the period from 2007 to 2017. Study design: This is an observational and analytical study. Results: We found 26 GCF (9%) in a total of 292 fibromas. GCFs prevailed in females (73%), as well as conventional fibromas (68%). The mean age of GCF was 52 years and for conventional fibromas 53 years, ranging from 7 to 82 years. The preferred localization of the GCF was tongue (34%), followed by gingiva (30%), whereas for conventional fibromas the preferred location is the buccal mucosa (57%). Conclusions: The distribution of GCF in relation to sex and age is similar to the conventional fibroma; however, its preferential location is different. The final differentiation is given by histopathologic analysis.