Abstract
Orofacial granulomatosis (OFG) represents a heterogeneous group of rare orofacial diseases. When affecting gingiva, it appears as a chronic soft tissue inflammation, sometimes combined with the enlargement and swelling of other intraoral sites, including the lips. Gingival biopsy highlights noncaseating granulomatous inflammation, similar to that observed in Crohn's disease and sarcoidosis. At present, the etiology of OFG remains uncertain, although the involvement of the genetic background and environmental triggers, such as oral conditions or therapies (including orthodontic treatment), has been suggested. The present study reports the results of a detailed clinical and 2D/3D microscopy investigation of a case of gingival orofacial granulomatosis in an 8-year-old male patient after orthodontic therapy. Intraoral examination showed an erythematous hyperplasia of the whole gingiva with a granular appearance occurring a few weeks after the installation of a quad-helix. Peri-oral inspection revealed upper labial swelling and angular cheilitis. General investigations did not report ongoing extra-oral disturbances with the exception of a weakly positive anti-Saccharomyces cerevicae IgG auto-antibody. Two- and three-dimensional microscopic investigations confirmed the presence of gingival orofacial granulomatosis. Daily corticoid mouthwashes over a period of 3 months resulted in a slight improvement in clinical signs, despite an intermittent inflammation recurrence. This study brings new insights into the microscopic features of gingival orofacial granulomatosis, thus providing key elements to oral practitioners to ensure accurate and timely OFG diagnosis. The accurate diagnosis of OFG allows targeted management of symptoms and patient monitoring over time, along with early detection and treatment of extra-oral manifestations, such as Crohn's disease.