Localized Juvenile Spongiotic Gingival Hyperplasia (LJSGH): A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Localized Juvenile Spongiotic Gingival Hyperplasia (LJSGH) is a condition characterized by localized, red, and raised gingival lesions with distinct histological findings. The exact etiology of LJSGH has not been established, but trauma and orthodontic treatment have been proposed as possible causes. The aim of this review article is to identify etiologies of this condition and report evidence of which factors are most closely associated with LJSGH. METHODS: A systematic literature search of the databases Pubmed, EMBASE, and Google Scholar through December 2023 was conducted. 215 subjects across 30 case series/studies were included and a descriptive analysis of data concerning patient demographics, clinical presentation, and treatment was conducted. Prevalence of potential etiologic contributors was also noted. RESULTS: The review yielded 215 subjects, 110 males (51.2%) and 105 females (48.8%). The age was reported in 135 participants, with a mean age of 14.9 (Median= 12, SD= 11.14). Lesions were solitary in 94.0% of the cases (n= 202) and 86% of the cases (n=197) occurred on the maxilla, with 93.4% (n= 214) of lesions affecting the anterior portions of the gingiva. The facial surface of the gingiva was involved in 90.8% of the cases (n=208). The most common treatment for LJSGH was surgical excision (71%, n=87) followed by biofilm control and observation (13.9%, n= 17). Most lesions were not concurrent with orthodontic treatment (86.3%, n=107). In addition, other types of traumas preceding the lesions, such as dental extractions, were reported in only two patients. CONCLUSIONS: Despite growing interest over the last couple of decades regarding LJSGH, it is still a poorly understood and underreported condition. Further research is required to better understand the disease process and how to treat it. IMPLICATIONS: By highlighting the most prevalent etiological factors, clinical patterns, and treatment modalities associated with LJSGH throughout the current literature, this review may serve as a comprehensive resource for the disease process.