Peripheral Giant Cell Granuloma
Also written as: PGCG — Peripheral Giant Cell Granuloma
A reactive gingival lesion characterised histologically by multinucleated giant cells within a vascular stroma, presenting as a dark red or purple nodule on the gingiva or alveolar mucosa.
Full Definition
The peripheral giant cell granuloma (PGCG) is a common reactive lesion arising from the periosteum or periodontal ligament in response to local irritation or trauma. Clinically it appears as a sessile or pedunculated, dark red to purple soft-tissue mass, exclusively anterior to the permanent molars in most series. It is the extraosseous counterpart of the central giant cell granuloma, which is an intraosseous lesion. PGCG has a tendency to recur if the underlying irritant is not eliminated. Editors should note the full term is preferred in formal documents; 'giant cell epulis' is an acceptable synonym in clinical notes but less precise.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from central giant cell granuloma (intraosseous). Abbreviation PGCG should be defined at first mention. Avoid the informal 'giant cell epulis' in formal diagnostic documents.
In Context
- "The peripheral giant cell granuloma was excised along with the adjacent calculus deposits to minimise the risk of recurrence." — Surgical report
- "The abbreviation PGCG was defined at first use, following journal style, before being used throughout the case series." — Journal article