Foamy Macrophages in Oral Lesions: An Insight
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Date
2025-06
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kairali Society of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathologists
Abstract
Introduction: The term “foamy” refers to “vacuolated cytoplasmic appearance of a macrophage” when viewed by light microscopy, due to the presence of lamellar bodies, accumulation of neutral lipids or drug particles in the cytoplasm of macrophages. Various studies had revealed the role of foamy macrophages in the pathogenesis of many oral lesions like verruciform xanthoma, periapical cysts, mucocele and pyogenic granuloma. This review focuses on the formation, pathogenesis and the role of foamy macrophages in various oral lesions. Materials and Methods: A literature search was performed using MeSH terms in PubMed/Medline and Google Scholar databases and finally 18 articles were included. Results: A total of 18 articles were included in this review. It includes case reports, review and original articles related to the topic foamy macrophages in oral lesions. Conclusion: Foam cells contribute a pathognomonic diagnostic feature in certain oral lesions such as verruciform xanthoma. “Foamy macrophages” play a crucial role in both pathogenesis and diagnosis of oral lesions. Hence, a basic understanding of its formation and role in pathogenesis and diagnosis of certain oral lesions is essential.
Description
Keywords
Foamy macrophages, Histiocytes, Oral lesions
Citation
Sai Lakshmi LJ, Jeddy N, Amutha S, Radhika T, Gnanasagar WR.. Foamy Macrophages in Oral Lesions: An Insight. Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology Journal. 2025 Jun; 16(1): 76-79