Primary hyperparathyroidism detected by gingival biopsy.

This case of primary hyperparathyroidism presented several unusual features: (1) The only presenting symptoms were two gingival giant cell lesions (brown tumors), (2) Bone changes occurred early in the disease, but apparently affected only the mandible and maxilla, (3) No renal disease could be detected. The diagnosis, treatment and postoperative course of this unusual case has been described.