A central giant cell granuloma in a patient seeking orthodontic treatment.
BACKGROUND
This case report illustrates the need to consider central giant cell granuloma, or CGCG, in the differential diagnosis in cases of greatly displaced teeth and facial deformity. The authors review the literature regarding CGCG and emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.


METHODS
A 9-year-old boy was seen in an orthodontic office with the chief complaint of overlapping front teeth. On radiographic examination, the authors noted a large maxillary midline radiolucency. The child was referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for definitive diagnosis and treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
Patients may come to dental offices for treatment of malaligned teeth. The dentist needs to be aware of possible oral pathology when malaligned teeth are present. CGCG should be included in the differential diagnosis for patients with greatly displaced teeth and facial deformity.
Allen
D T
DT
Mayo Graduate School of Medicine, Department of Dental Specialties, Section of Orthodontics, Mayo Clinic, W-4A, 200 First Street S.W., Rochester, Minn. 55905, USA. allen.david@mayo.edu
Sheats
R D
RD
D002648:Child; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006101:Granuloma, Giant Cell / Q000150:complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008310:Malocclusion / Q000209:etiology*; D008439:Maxillary Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology*; D011859:Radiography