Prognostic significance of cortical perforation in the recurrence of central giant cell granulomas of the jaws

This paper was intended to present clinicopathological findings of 31 cases with central giant cell granuloma of the jaws (CGCG) as well as the prognostic significance of the histologically confirmed cortical perforation. The subjects of the study were 22 females and 7 males with age range from 7 to 69 years. CGCG occurred predominantly in the premolar and intercanine region of both jaws. In one case multifocal lesions were found. Microscopically all lesions showed a fibrovascular stroma and multinucleated giant cells of the osteoclastic type. Cortical perforation and soft tissue extension were observed in seven cases, Treatment consisted of curettage in 29 cases and en bloc resection in one case. Lesions recurred in five cases. All lesions that recurred showed microscopically confirmed cortical perforation at the time of the first occurrence. It is concluded that cortical perforation has a prognostic significance in the recurrence of CGCG and when it is observed at operation curettage should be vigorous.