Oral focal mucinosis of the gingiva: case report.

BACKGROUND

Oral focal mucinosis is a rare disease of unknown etiology, where the connective tissue undergoes a focal myxoid degeneration.

METHODS

We describe a 48-year-old patient who was referred for a firm, tender mass located on the gingiva of the left central mandibular incisor. The first clinical impression at examination was that of a periodontal abscess.

RESULTS

The lesion underwent a biopsy, and the final microscopic diagnosis was oral focal mucinosis.

CONCLUSIONS

It must be stressed that in most focal gingival lesions, a preoperative diagnosis can be almost impossible.