Evolution of maxillofacial brown tumors after parathyroidectomy in primary hyperparathyroidism.

BACKGROUND

Brown tumor occasionally affects the facial bones. Clinically, these lesions can be mistaken for a neoplasm. Opinions are divided on the course of management of the bony lesions once parathyroidectomy has been carried out.

METHODS

We treated 22 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism and osteitis fibrosa cystica and observed their clinical and biochemical recovery.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients (68.2%) had brown tumors in mandible, and 7 (31.8%) in maxilla. After parathyroidectomy, 21 patients had normal total serum calcium values. All brown tumors presented a spontaneous progressive regression; in 18 cases, regression was total, with a mean time period of 10 months. Two patients had partial regression after nearly 2 years. Another 2 patients were lost to follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

After successful parathyroid surgery, the bony lesions tended to regress spontaneously, either partially or completely. However, if the lesion is disfiguring or symptomatic, surgical excision may be indicated.