Multiple osteolytic lesions of the jaws in a patient with neurofibromatosis type I:A case report and focused literature review

We describe the case of a patient diagnosed with neurofibromatosis type1 (NF1) where unusually extensive and multiple osteolytic lesions ofboth jaws consistent with central giant cell granulomas (CGCG) causedmassive bone destruction and left her almost “jawless.” The patient wasa 58-year-old woman who at the age of 15 years was diagnosed withNF1 and at the age of 53 years underwent radiation therapy for nasalobstruction due to CGCG. The most significant intraoral findings werebrown tumors on the maxillary gingiva; bilateral expansion of the hardpalate; and a yellow mass on the floor of the mouth. Head and neckexamination revealed mandibular asymmetry and features consistentwith NF1. Panoramic radiograph and cone beam computed tomographydisclosed multiple radiolucent masses. Although the occurrence ofmultiple CGCG of the jaws in patients with NF1 is rare, early diagnosis,regular follow-up and proper therapeutic intervention may limit theextent of bone destruction