Cytomorphometric and immunohistochemical comparison between central and peripheral giant cell lesions of the jaws

Objective. To determine whether cytomorphometric differences of multinucleated giant cells (MGCs) and CD68 reactivity of both MGCs and infiltrating macrophages may be associated with the clinical behavior of central and peripheral giant cell lesions of the jaws. Study design. Paraffin-embedded samples of central giant cell lesions (CGCLs; n = 20) and peripheral giant cell lesions (PGCLs; n = 20) were prepared for cytomorphometric analysis and immunohistochemistry. Results. The nuclei in CGCLs were more numerous, larger, and more irregular than those in PGCLs. Furthermore, CD68 expression and the ratio of CD68(+) macrophage to MGCs were significantly greater in CGCLs than in PGCLs. Statistical correlations between CD68 expression and the staining-intensity distribution score within the diagnostic groups were significant in CGCLs and not significant in PGCLs. Conclusion. Although the CGCLs share some histopathologic similarities with PGCLs, differences in both nuclear morphometric parameters of MGC and CD68 immunoreactivity may underlie the distinct clinical behavior.