Université internationale de Rabat, Morocco
Introduction: Orofacial granulomatosis (OFG) is a rare inflammatory condition characterized by non-caseating granulomas, which may be idiopathic or secondary to systemic diseases such as Crohn’s disease or sarcoidosis. Diagnosis is often delayed, and no standardized therapeutic approach currently exists. The emergence of biologics, particularly anti-TNFα agents and more recently rituximab, has opened new therapeutic perspectives. Objective: To review current evidence on orofacial granulomatosis, exploring diagnostic challenges, pathogenic hypotheses, and the therapeutic potential of biologic agents.
Materials and Methods: A review was conducted based on data from the literature. A search was carried out on PubMed, supplemented by a manual search in the library, using the following keywords: “Granulomatose orofaciale,” “anti-TNF,” “rituximab,” and “biologics.” These terms were combined using the Boolean operator “AND.” All articles related to techniques for closing oroantral communications were selected, first by screening titles and then abstracts. Only articles that met the objective of this study were read in full.
Results: Five articles were selected. Anti-TNFα agents and rituximab may benefit refractory cases, while intralesional triamcinolone shows good efficacy for labial edema; however, recent European cohorts emphasize persistent diagnostic delays and the need for systematic screening of systemic diseases.
Conclusion: OFG remains a heterogeneous and challenging entity to manage. Corticosteroids remain the first-line therapy, but biologics are a promising option in severe or resistant forms. The lack of controlled clinical trials, however, limits the establishment of standardized treatment recommendations. Early multidisciplinary follow-up is essential to optimize diagnosis and patient management.
Dr. Ghita El Basraoui is a faculty member at the International University of Rabat, College of Health Sciences, International Faculty of Dental Medicine (CReSS), Morocco. She is actively engaged in academic teaching, clinical training, and scientific research in the field of dentistry. Based at the Technopolis Parc, Rocade of Rabat-Salé, Sala-Al Jadida, Dr. El Basraoui contributes to advancing oral health education and research in Morocco. Her professional interests include dental medicine, oral health sciences, and collaborative research aimed at improving clinical practices and patient outcomes. Dr. El Basraoui is committed to fostering innovation in dental education and expanding international academic partnerships.