Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare disease of unknown pathogenesis that involves clonal proliferation of Langerhans cells and can affect multiple human body systems. LCH’s presentation in the jaws is often mistaken for severe periodontal disease because of the bone loss pattern and attendant tooth mobility mimicking that of periodontal disease. The purpose of this article is to review the literature to highlight current diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for LCH in the jawbone. In addition, a case with spontaneous regression of an apparent isolated focal presentation of LCH in the mandible of a young man is presented. After performing a diagnostic biopsy, a conservative “wait and see” approach for treating LCH in jaws is suggested. Based on the available clinical evidence, monitoring of similar cases for a longer period is reasonable before drawing further conclusions.
Educational objectives
Upon completion of this course, the dental professional should be able to:
- Identify the dental and systemic clinical features of Langerhans cell histiocytosis
- Distinguish LCH from periodontal and endodontic lesions
- Describe the different modalities utilized for the management of involved teeth
- Identify the team members who should be involved in treating such cases
About the Authors
Hussein S. Basma, DDS, DESS, MS, is an assistant professor in the Department of Periodontology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He is a diplomate in the American Board of Periodontology, and lectures nationally and internationally about periodontology and implant dentistry. Dr. Basma has authored numerous peer-reviewed scientific articles and abstracts. His teaching efforts focus on bone augmentation, full-arch rehabilitation, multidisciplinary care, and integration of technology.
Muhammad H. A. Saleh, BDS, MS, MSD, is a clinical assistant professor at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine. He is actively involved in research, serving as a peer reviewer and publishing more than 50 periodontics and implant-related peer-reviewed articles. A winner of multiple national and international awards, Dr. Saleh’s research interest is primarily focused on risk factors of periodontitis and peri-implantitis, and guided bone regeneration.
Quick Access Code: 22206
Photo Credit: Nephron CC BY-SA 3.0
Course Content
Course Includes
- 1 Lesson
- 1 Test
- Course Certificate
CE credit(s): 3
Course Type: Written
Published Date: January 2024
This continuing education (CE) activity was developed by Endeavor Business Media with no commercial support.
This course was written for dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants, from novice to skilled.
Educational methods: This course is a self-instructional journal and web activity.
Provider disclosure: Endeavor Business Media neither has a leadership position nor a commercial interest in any products or services discussed or shared in this educational activity. No manufacturer or third party had any input in the development of the course content.
Requirements for successful completion: To obtain 3 CE credits for this educational activity, you must pay the required fee, review the material, complete the course evaluation, and obtain an exam score of 70% or higher.
CE planner disclosure: Laura Winfield, Endeavor Business Media dental group CE coordinator, neither has a leadership nor commercial interest with the products or services discussed in this educational activity. Ms. Winfield can be reached at lwinfield@endeavorb2b.com.
Educational disclaimer: Completing a single continuing education course does not provide enough information to result in the participant being an expert in the field related to the course topic. It is a combination of many educational courses and clinical experience that allows the participant to develop skills and expertise.
Image authenticity statement: The images in this educational activity have not been altered.
Scientific integrity statement: Information shared in this CE course is developed from clinical research and represents the most current information available from evidence-based dentistry.
Known benefits and limitations of the data: The information presented in this educational activity is derived from the data and information contained in the reference section.
Registration: The cost of this CE course is $39.00 for 3 CE credits.
Cancellation and refund policy: Any participant who is not 100% satisfied with this course can request a full refund by contacting Endeavor Business Media in writing.
Provider information:
Dental Board of California: Provider RP5933. Course registration number CA code: 03-5933-22206. Expires May 2027. “This course meets the Dental Board of California’s requirements for 3 units of continuing education.”
Endeavor Business Media is a nationally approved PACE program provider for FAGD/MAGD credit.
Approval does not imply acceptance by any regulatory authority or AGD endorsement.
11/1/2022 to 10/31/2024.
Provider ID# 320452
AGD code: 750
Endeavor Business Media is designated as an approved Provider by the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Inc. #AADHPNW (January 1, 2022–December 31, 2024). Approval does not imply acceptance by a state or provincial Board of Dentistry. Licensee should maintain this document in the event of an audit. AADH code:
Endeavor Business Media is an ADA CERP–recognized provider.
ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of dental continuing education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry.
Concerns or complaints about a CE provider may be directed to the provider or to CERP at ada.org/goto/cerp.
