What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Idiopathic Gingival Hyperplasia

What is Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis is a common, slowly-progressing, benign condition of the gums. This condition has been noted to be present from birth (it has a congenital presentation)
• The cause and risk factors of Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis are unknown at this time
• The most common treatment for Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis is surgery. After surgery, post-surgical therapy and monitoring is required to help the patient return to normal function, ensuring that complications do not arise
• With prompt and appropriate treatment, the prognosis of the condition is good. In some cases, the gum tissue growth may recur on an incomplete surgical removal

Who gets Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Infants and young children are usually affected as Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis can be seen at birth
• Both males and females may be affected by this condition
• The condition can occur worldwide. Also, since there is no ethnic or racial preference for Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis, it can occur in any race or ethnic group

What are the Risk Factors for Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis? (Predisposing Factors)

• The risk factors for Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis are largely unknown.
• In some cases, it has been noted that a family history of the condition may increase one’s risk of developing this benign growth 

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

It is also important to remember that not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis? (Etiology)

• The exact cause and formation of Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis is unknown
• A family history of the disease is believed to play a role in certain individuals

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis?

The signs and symptoms of Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis include:

• Growth of tissue on the gums:
  • This condition typically results in tissue growth on the gums, which is less than 1 cm in size (along the larger dimension)
  • Gums of both the upper and lower jaw can be affected
  • Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis on the gums is normally painless and slow-growing
• The tissue masses are usually firm to the touch and well-defined
• Masses may be present as single or multiple, well-defined nodules, at various locations on the gums
• In some cases, Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis may cause bleeding from the gums, or gum ulcerations

How is Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis Diagnosed?

The following are some diagnostic tools used to identify Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis:

• A thorough physical examination and a complete medical history: A physical examination will allow the physician to determine, if there is a growth on the gums; while a complete medical history will identify, if any risk factors are present that may make an individual more susceptible to developing Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis
• A tissue biopsy of the tumor: A tissue biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. A pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together the clinical findings, conducting special studies on tissues (if needed) and organizing the microscopic findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis. Examination of the biopsy under a microscope by a pathologist is considered to be the gold standard, in arriving at a conclusive diagnosis
• Sometimes, the pathologist may perform special studies, which may include immunohistochemical stains, histochemical stains, molecular testing, and very rarely, electron microscopic studies
• Differential diagnosis, to eliminate other tumor types, is also often conducted, before arriving at a definitive diagnosis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions before arriving at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis?

No significant complications due to Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis have been reported. However, in rare cases:

• The tumor may become large in size, resulting in a cosmetic issue
• Gum infections due to ulceration of large tumors may be seen
• The condition may recur after surgical excision, if the tumor is incompletely removed

How is Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis Treated?

The following methods are used to treat Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis:

• Usually no treatment is required, due to the benign nature of Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis
• Some growths caused by gingival fibromatosis are self-limiting and asymptomatic, requiring no treatment at all; these growths may even regress completely
• If growths become too large, a gingivectomy (complete surgical removal) may be performed
• If Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis is causing cosmetic issues, a surgical removal may be necessary and is recommended
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important

The healthcare provider will determine the best course of treatment depending on each specific case.

How can Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis be Prevented?

Currently, there are no specific methods or guidelines to prevent Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis. However, the following information is useful with respect to this benign gum condition:

• Early diagnosis with close monitoring and treatment of the tumor is important
• Prompt treatment and early tumor recognition will help in having an optimal outcome

What is the Prognosis of Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis is very good with suitable treatment
• A complete excision usually results in low tumor recurrence

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis:

• Hereditary gingival fibromatosis (HGF) is a common, slowly-progressing, benign condition of the gums. This condition has been noted to be present from birth

The following article link will help you understand hereditary gingival fibromatosis.

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/hereditary-gingival-fibromatosis/