Abstract
Background: Localized juvenile spongiotic gingival hyperplasia (LJSGH) is an uncommon condition presenting as a well-circumscribed, papillary, and exophytic red soft-tissue lesion commonly on the gingival margin and attached gingiva with distinctive histological features. Up to date, the exact etiology is yet to be determined, while a reactive nature of the disease was suggested. Purpose: The aim of this systematic review is to investigate various LJSGH treatment options for the best outcome. Methods: A search was conducted using PubMed/Medline and Medscape up to April 2019. All English literature on management of LJSGH was included and systematically reviewed for bias and using different levels of elimination by multiple reviewers. The required data from eligible studies were extracted and analyzed. Results: Twelve articles met the inclusion criteria following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis statement. In total, 97 cases were treated by surgical excision in which 12 had recurrence within a median follow-up of 29 months. Two cases were treated with cryotherapy, one with photodynamic therapy, and one case with surface cauterization with topical clobetasol all with no reported recurrence. In addition, one case was treated with scaling and chlorhexidine application without significant response. Conclusion: Based on the available evidence, the complete excision of LJSGH using any method may have the most predictable outcome. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and explore alternative management options.