Granular cell peripheral odontogenic fibroma

Abstract

A case of human peripheral odontogenic fibroma which contained aggregates of large granular cells is reported. These granular cells are similar to those previously described in granular cell myoblastoma, congenital epulis and granular cell ameloblastic fibroma. Deep extensions of the basal layer of overlying gingival epithelium, in double strand fashion, are frequently observed in peripheral odontogenic fibromas. These strands closely resemble those seen in the tumor itself. On this basis, and as similar basal cell prolongations are seen in other jaw lesions, residual ectomesenchymal influence may be responsible for inducing the basal cell proliferations in a similar manner to that which occurs during early embryonic dental development. This might be the histogenesis of the odontogenic epithelial strands in the peripheral odontogenic fibroma.