Reactive lesions of the gingiva

A total of 279 cases of reactive lesions of the gingiva have been subdivided into three groups: pyogenic granuloma/gingival fibromatoid lesions, peripheral giant cell granuloma and peripheral ossifying fibroma. Age, sex and and site distribution arc similar for pyogenic granuloma/gingival fibromatoid lesions and peripheral giant cell granuloma; namely, comparable bimodal age peaks occur, women are affected more often, and a predilection exists for the anterior segment of the dental arch. Although peripheral ossifying fibromas also have the same sex and site predilection, incidence occurs as a single age peak in the second decade with a continuous decline thereafter. Clinical and histopathologic features invite speculation that all three lesions represent varied histologic responses to irritation.