Lymphocyte Subpopulations in Peripheral Giant Cell Granuloma

Peripheral giant cell granuloma (PGCG) is a relatively common non-neoplastic inflammatory lesion of the gingiva characterized by multinucleated giant cells within a vascularized stroma. Lymphocyte subpopulations, including T- and B-cells, play a significant role in the immunopathogenesis of gingival and periodontal diseases.

The evaluation of lymphocyte subpopulations in gingival tissues is an established method for understanding local immune responses. However, limited data are available regarding lymphocyte profiles in PGCG lesions. Therefore, this study aims to investigate and compare lymphocyte subpopulations in PGCG and healthy gingival tissues.

This study is designed as a within-subject controlled observational study including 28 systemically healthy and non-smoking patients diagnosed with PGCG. Biopsy samples are obtained from PGCG lesions during surgical excision, and corresponding healthy gingival tissues are collected from the same individuals.

Tissue specimens are processed using standard histological procedures and analyzed by immunohistochemical methods. The presence and proportion of CD3, CD4, CD8, CD20, and CD79a positive cells are evaluated. The proportion of positively stained cells is calculated as the percentage of positive cells relative to the total number of counted cells.

The results are compared between PGCG tissues and healthy gingival tissues to identify differences in lymphocyte subpopulations and to better understand the immunopathological characteristics of PGCG.

Inclusion criteria

• Systemically healthy individuals
• Non-smokers
• Patients diagnosed with peripheral giant cell granuloma
• Individuals requiring surgical excision of PGCG
• Patients providing written informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• Presence of systemic diseases
• Smoking habit
• Use of medications associated with gingival enlargement
• History of periodontal treatment within the last 6 months
• Pregnant or lactating individuals