Gingival enlargement in neurofibromatosis type 1: a case report and literature review.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this article is to describe a rare case of neurofibromatosis1 (NF1) of the gingiva and a review of the current literature.


BACKGROUND
Neurofibromatosis1 (NF1) of the gingiva is an uncommon cause of gingival enlargement. The disease is clinically characterized by epidermal melanosis, nevi, and flabby skin or bone malformations; in addition, the lesions may undergo malignant transformation. Involvement of the gingiva with or without concurrent skin lesions has been reported only occasionally.


METHODS
A 40-year-old male patient with a history of NF1 came to us with a chief complaint of enlargement of the gums. Clinical examination revealed diffuse gingival enlargement with no signs of inflammation. The characteristic skin lesions associated with NF1 were also present. A gingival specimen was sent for biopsy.


RESULTS
Based on the history, clinical, and histological findings, NF1 was established as the cause of the gingival enlargement.


CONCLUSIONS
NF1 may affect the gingival tissue; considering the neurological complications and malignant potential, NF1 must be diagnosed early and monitored regularly.


CONCLUSIONS
The clinician should be aware of clinical and histopathological findings of NF1 considering the fact that the condition has malignant potential.
Department of Periodontics at H.P.G.D.C. in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India. julius05@rediffmail.com
Ajay
A
Mahajan
Jaya
J
Dixit
Ashu
A
Bhardwaj
D000328:Adult; D001706:Biopsy; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005887:Gingival Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology*; D019214:Gingival Overgrowth / Q000473:pathology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009456:Neurofibromatosis 1 / Q000473:pathology*