Classifying giant cell lesions: A review

Abstract

Multinucleated giant cells are often encountered in oral lesions. Traditional classifications have placed a little importance on the type or histogenesis of multinucleated giant cells in grouping these lesions. The classification of giant cell lesions of the maxillofacial skeleton is the one that remains controversial. Classifying giant cell lesions of the jaw as granulomatous based solely on its location seems inappropriate. Giant cells lesions were classified based on the etiopathogenesis, origin, etiology, type, radiographic appearance and pathology of giant cells present. The rationale for this classification was based on the recent research findings regarding the histogenesis of giant cells. Multinucleated giant cells are morphologically characterized by the presence of multiple nuclei dispersed in cytoplasm. Multinucleated cells are commonly encountered in oral and maxillofacial lesions. An epidemiological study by Mohajerani et al. has reported that 6.36% of the oral biopsies received in their laboratory were multinucleated giant cells containing lesions. Classifying oral lesions with giant cells has always been problematic. However, accurate identification and categorization of these lesions based on nature, distribution and origin of giant cells is necessary. Correlation of histopathological features in relation to giant cells is required. The aim of this article is to review both the earlier and recent classification of giant cell lesions in order which would enable pathologists and oral physicians to ascertain the behavior and diagnosis of such lesions.

Keywords

• Giant cells
• histogenesis
• multinucleated
• oral cavity
• oral biopsies