Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis: Report of a Rare Case

• Published in: Curēus (Palo Alto, CA) Vol. 16; no. 8; p. e67448
• Main Authors: Shree Abiraami, N S, Umamaheswari, T N, Ramalingam, Karthikeyan, Pillai, Devika S
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Cureus Inc 21.08.2024; Cureus
• Subjects: Aesthetics; Cell growth; Collagen; Connective tissue diseases; Dentistry; Hyperplasia; Metabolism; Mutation; Oral Medicine; Phosphatase; Quality of life; Radiology; Signal transduction; Systemic diseases; Teeth; Tomography; idiopathic gingival fibromatosis; gingival hyperplasia; gingival enlargement; gingival fibromatosis; gingivectomy; gingival overgrowth
• ISSN: 2168-8184; 2168-8184
• DOI: 10.7759/cureus.67448

The progressive overgrowth of the gingiva is the hallmark of idiopathic gingival fibromatosis (IGF). Excess gingival tissue can obscure the crown of a tooth, resulting in spaces between teeth, displacement, retention of primary or permanent teeth, and difficulties with feeding, speaking, and appearance. The diagnosis and management of inherited gingival fibromatosis are the focus of this case report. A 12-year-old girl was referred from the Department of Orthodontics to Oral Medicine as a result of progressive gingival enlargement, which impeded orthodontic treatment for misaligned lower front teeth. The patient underwent a conservative periodontal treatment regimen that encompassed gingivectomy and debridement. The excised gingival tissues were submitted for histopathological examination. Tissue sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin showed connective tissue with dense bundles of collagen fibers and little inflammation. The patient was reviewed after three months, and advised of orthodontic management for further aesthetic correction. The findings indicated that the oral symptoms of gingival fibromatosis are influenced by the severity of the condition and the age at which it begins. Early intervention helps mitigate potential difficulties for younger individuals.