A unique presentation of infratemporal fossa giant cell granuloma: A case report and literature review

Introduction: The infratemporal fossa (ITF) is considered an uncommon location for giant cell granuloma (GCG), a rare benign disease that is frequently detected in the maxilla and mandible.

Presentation of case: A 47-year-old male presented with right-sided hearing loss, tinnitus, and jaw claudication. Radiological imaging confirmed the presence of a mass in the ITF accompanied by bone erosion. An endonasal endoscopic approach was used to remove the lesion after a CT-guided biopsy verified GCG. The final diagnosis was histopathologically confirmed.

Discussion: GCG is one of the subtypes of giant cell-rich bone lesions, commonly reported in the anterior or posterior mandible and anterior maxilla. Histological evaluation to distinguish GCG from other giant cell-rich lesions, such as giant cell tumors, particularly in uncommon extragnathic locations like the ITF, is a crucial step after imaging for an accurate diagnosis and management.

Conclusion: In GCG, early identification and surgical excision are essential to avoid complications. This case demonstrates the usefulness of CT-guided biopsy and imaging in detecting GCG in an unusual location.