Comparative evaluation of stromal characteristics in developmental, inflammatory, and neoplastic oral lesions using Masson’s Trichrome staining
Namira K. Fateen, Gheena Sukumaran, Prathiba RamaniAbstract
Context/Background:
Stromal collagen plays a significant role in influencing lesion behaviour, yet comparative histochemical analyses across developmental, inflammatory, and neoplastic oral lesions remain limited.
Aims:
To compare stromal collagen characteristics among odontogenic keratocyst (OKC), radicular cyst, and fibroma using Masson’s Trichrome staining.
Materials and Methods:
Thirty Masson’s Trichrome-stained sections were initially planned (final n = 37): OKC (n = 13), radicular cyst (n = 17), and fibroma (n = 7). Collagen features were semi-quantitatively assessed across seven parameters including staining intensity, subepithelial thickness, fiber orientation, maturity, distribution, perivascular collagen, and peri-inflammatory staining. Two blinded oral pathologists independently scored all cases.
Results:
Significant intergroup differences were found in staining intensity (
Conclusions:
OKCs exhibit immature, disorganised stroma consistent with their aggressive behavior, while radicular cysts show greater stromal maturity and stability. Fibromas displayed the highest collagen organisation. Masson’s Trichrome staining serves as a practical and cost-effective technique for assessing stromal characteristics, thereby improving diagnostic interpretation in routine oral pathology.