Cherubism treated with intranasal calcitonin: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Cherubism is a rare benign disease, clinically characterized by progressive, asymptomatic, and bilateral expansion of the jaws. Both familial and sporadic cases have been reported. Typically, first signs and symptoms appear in early childhood between 2 and 5 years of age, followed by gradual progression of lesions until puberty and remission before the 4th-5th decades. A treatment protocol for cherubism has not been yet standardized and treatment options vary between conventional surgical and non-invasive approaches. The purpose of this clinical report is to present a comprehensive diagnostic and conservative treatment approach of a 7-years old male with familial cherubism. At age 7 with asymptomatic mild bilateral swelling of the cheeks were observed. The team approach management of the case was based on intranasal calcitonin for 2 years combined with surgical removal of impacted teeth, orthodontics, and prosthodontics. Complete regression was achieved, which was persistent for 8 years post treatment.

Keywords

• Cherubism
• Bilateral swelling
• Calcitonin
• Bone lesions