Gingival Fibromatosis Associated with Zimmermann-Laband Syndrome: A Case Report

Abstract

Gingival fibromatosis is characterized by non-hemorrhagic, painless, slowly-progressive, fibrous enlargement of gingival tissue with normal color. It can be an isolated condition or associated with a syndrome. Zimmermann-Laband Syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by gingival fibromatosis and is associated with the absence and/or hypoplasia of the nails or terminal phalanges of the hands and feet, abnormality of the nose and ears, hyperextensibility of joints, hirsutism, hepatosplenomegaly and mental retardation. However, variability of the phenotype haa been reported. It was first described by Zimmermann in 1928 in two isolated cases. This syndrome was delineated better by Laband in a case report that included a mother and five of her seven children in 1964. Here we reported a boy who first came to our dental clinic due to profuse gingival overgrowth at the age of 5 year-old. Based on the child's displayed systemic characteristics, a diagnosis of Zimmermann-Laband syndrome was given. Gingivectomy of the lower anterior area was performed at that time. However, the gingival overgrowth had recurred 4 years later and therefore a second gingivectomy was performed. At the 1-year follow-up, the treatment outcome was fair, but the gingival overgrowth was still showing a tendency to recur. Periodic examination with professional cleaning and oral hygiene instruction is deemed necessary when treating patients with this syndrome.