Peripheral Ossifying Fibroma in Infant: A Case Report

Abstract

Peripheral ossifying fibroma is a relatively common gingival growth of reactive rather than neoplastic in nature. Clinically differentiating one from the other as a specific lesion is often difficult and requires histopathology examination. It predominantly affects adolescents and young adults, but rarely seen in infants. We report here a clinical case of peripheral ossifying fibroma in a 3 month old infant .clinical and histopathological features along with etiopathogenesis and differential diagnosis are also discussed.very concerned regarding the lesion whether it may affect her facial appearance. Clinical ExaminationExtra-oral examination revealed no findings of clinical significance. Intra oral examination revealed a fibrous nodular mass with a sessile base in the mandibular anterior region measuring about 0.5 x 1.5 centimetres (Figure 1).The lesion appeared reddish pink with areas of white and rubbery in consistency. The lesion was tender to firm pressure but not to light palpation. However, the lesion was non fluctuant and did not blanch under pressure. Based on these findings and the history, the differential diagnosis consisted of irritation fibroma, pyogenic granuloma, and peripheral giant cell granuloma. Radiographic examination was not attempted as the parents did not want the baby to be exposed to any radiation. TreatmentIt was decided to excise the lesion and an informed consent was obtained from the parents. A routine blood examination was done, which reflected normal findings. Under local anesthesia, the mass was excised using ligature technique, where the suture was ligated beneath the deeper part of the mass followed by excision of the lesion over the suture material (Figure 2). The tissue was submitted for histopathology examination. Microscopic examination revealed moderately cellular