U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

NCBI Bookshelf. A service of the National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

Adam MP, Feldman J, Mirzaa GM, et al., editors. GeneReviews® [Internet]. Seattle (WA): University of Washington, Seattle; 1993-2024.

Cover of GeneReviews®

GeneReviews® [Internet].

Show details

Cherubism

, MB ChB, PhD, DCH, FRACP, FRCPC, , PhD, FCCMG, FACMG, and , BM, MSc, MRCPCH.

Author Information and Affiliations

Initial Posting: ; Last Update: November 21, 2018.

Estimated reading time: 25 minutes

Summary

Clinical characteristics.

Cherubism is a childhood-onset, autoinflammatory bone disease characterized by bilateral and symmetric proliferative fibroosseous lesions limited to the mandible and maxilla. The enlargement is usually symmetric in nature. The phenotype ranges from no clinical manifestations to severe mandibular and maxillary overgrowth with respiratory, vision, speech, and swallowing problems. In most affected persons, teeth are displaced, unerupted, unformed, or absent, or may appear to be floating in cystlike spaces; malocclusion, premature exfoliation of deciduous teeth, and root resorption have also been reported. The course and duration of the active process of bone destruction varies between affected individuals; the onset is usually in early childhood, and typically new lesions can occur until puberty. Regression of the lesions occurs as they become filled with bone and remodel during the second and third decade of life. By age 30 years, the facial abnormalities associated with cherubism are not usually recognizable and residual deformity of the jaws is rare. Typically, cherubism is an isolated benign condition; the affected person has normal intellectual skills and is without other physical anomalies.

Diagnosis/testing.

Diagnosis is established in a proband with typical clinical, radiographic, and histologic findings and/or a heterozygous pathogenic variant in SH3BP2 identified by molecular genetic testing.

Management.

Treatment of manifestations: Given that cherubism is considered to be a self-limited condition that improves over time, treatment should be tailored to the individual's presentation and the evolution of the disease. Ongoing management by a craniofacial team in a major pediatric medical center is recommended; depending on the severity, surgery may be needed for functional and esthetic concerns.

Surveillance: Long-term follow up with clinical, radiographic, dental, orthodontic, and ophthalmologic evaluations. Annual reviews are indicated while new cysts continue to form or established cysts enlarge; after the disorder becomes quiescent, follow up every two to five years.

Testing of relatives at risk: When the pathogenic variant in the family is known, molecular testing can be used to identify mildly affected relatives who may benefit from early intervention; otherwise, clinical and radiographic evaluations can identify relatives at risk.

Genetic counseling.

Cherubism is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. The proportion of cases caused by de novo pathogenic variants is unknown because of variable expressivity and reduced penetrance. Each child of an individual with cherubism has a 50% chance of inheriting the pathogenic variant. Prenatal diagnosis for a pregnancy at increased risk and preimplantation genetic testing are possible if the pathogenic variant has been identified in the family.

Diagnosis

Cherubism is a childhood-onset, autoinflammatory bone disease characterized by bilateral and symmetric proliferative fibroosseous lesions limited to the mandible and maxilla. The course and duration of the active process of bone destruction varies between affected individuals; the onset is usually in early childhood, and typically new lesions can occur until puberty. Regression of the lesions occurs as they become filled with bone and remodel during the second and third decade of life. No formal clinical diagnostic criteria for cherubism have been published to date.

Some experts consider a tissue biopsy sufficient to confirm the diagnosis. However, since cherubic phenotypes can be mimicked by other jaw tumors requiring different therapeutic strategies, a thoughtful consideration of histologic analysis is warranted [Friedrich et al 2016].

Suggestive Findings

Cherubism should be suspected in individuals with the following clinical, radiologic, and histologic findings.

Clinical findings

  • Onset usually between age two and seven years
  • Bilateral, symmetric enlargement of the mandible and/or maxilla including coronoids but usually sparing the condyles. Other cranial bones are usually unaffected.
  • Swelling of submandibular and cervical lymph nodes (early in the course only)
  • Slow progression of the jaw lesions up to adolescence and spontaneous regression typically starting after puberty and extending into the twenties
  • Upturned tilting of eyeballs (in advanced stages); rim of sclera visible beneath iris
  • Dental abnormalities: congenitally missing second and third molars; premature exfoliation of the deciduous teeth and displacement of permanent teeth secondary to the jaw lesions; malocclusion

Radiographic manifestations typically include bilateral, multilocular, radiolucent areas within the mandible, usually located at the angles and rami. The coronoid processes are commonly involved, whereas the condyles are rarely affected.

  • Lesions in the mandible are usually symmetric, whereas those in the maxilla may be asymmetric.
  • Imaging typically shows expansile remodeling of the involved bones, thinning of the cortices, and multilocular radiolucencies with a coarse trabecular pattern [Beaman et al 2004].

Histologic manifestations of lesions in the mandible and/or maxilla: non-neoplastic fibrotic lesions that contain numerous multinuclear giant cells and occasionally cysts. Increase in osteoid and newly formed bone matrix is observed in the periphery. Since cherubic phenotypes can be mimicked by other jaw tumors requiring different therapeutic strategies, a thoughtful consideration of histological analysis is required [Friedrich et al 2016].

Establishing the Diagnosis

The diagnosis of cherubism is established in a proband with typical clinical, radiographic, and histologic findings and/or a heterozygous pathogenic variant in SH3BP2 identified by molecular genetic testing (see Table 1).

Molecular genetic testing approaches can include a combination of gene-targeted testing (single-gene testing, multigene panel) and comprehensive genomic testing (exome sequencing, genome sequencing) depending on the phenotype.

Gene-targeted testing requires that the clinician determine which gene(s) are likely involved, whereas genomic testing does not. Because the phenotype of cherubism overlaps other conditions with jaw lesions, individuals with the distinctive findings described in Suggestive Findings are likely to be diagnosed using gene-targeted testing (see Option 1), whereas those with a phenotype indistinguishable from many other inherited disorders with jaw lesions or those in whom the diagnosis of cherubism has not been considered are more likely to be diagnosed using comprehensive genomic testing (see Option 2).

Option 1

When the phenotypic findings suggest the diagnosis of cherubism, molecular genetic testing approaches can include single-gene testing or use of a multigene panel.

  • Single-gene testing. Sequence analysis of SH3BP2 detects small intragenic deletions/insertions and missense, nonsense, and splice site variants; typically, exon or whole-gene deletions/duplications are not detected. Perform sequence analysis first. If no pathogenic variant is found, gene-targeted deletion/duplication analysis could be considered, but since cherubism occurs through a gain-of-function mechanism and large intragenic deletion or duplication has not been reported, testing for intragenic deletions or duplication is unlikely to identify a disease-causing variant.
    Note: The majority of disease-associated variants have been reported in exon 9.
  • A multigene panel that includes SH3BP2 and other genes of interest (see Differential Diagnosis) is most likely to identify the genetic cause of the condition while limiting identification of variants of uncertain significance and pathogenic variants in genes that do not explain the underlying phenotype. Note: (1) The genes included in the panel and the diagnostic sensitivity of the testing used for each gene vary by laboratory and are likely to change over time. (2) Some multigene panels may include genes not associated with the condition discussed in this GeneReview. (3) In some laboratories, panel options may include a custom laboratory-designed panel and/or custom phenotype-focused exome analysis that includes genes specified by the clinician. (4) Methods used in a panel may include sequence analysis, deletion/duplication analysis, and/or other non-sequencing-based tests.
    For an introduction to multigene panels click here. More detailed information for clinicians ordering genetic tests can be found here.

Option 2

When the phenotype is indistinguishable from many other inherited disorders characterized by jaw lesions or the diagnosis of cherubism is not considered because an individual has atypical phenotypic features, comprehensive genomic testing (which does not require the clinician to determine which gene[s] are likely involved) is the best option. Exome sequencing is the most commonly used genomic testing method; genome sequencing is also possible.

For an introduction to comprehensive genomic testing click here. More detailed information for clinicians ordering genomic testing can be found here.

Table 1.

Molecular Genetic Testing Used in Cherubism

Gene 1MethodProportion of Probands with a Pathogenic Variant 2 Detectable by Method
SH3BP2 Sequence analysis 3~80% 4
Gene-targeted deletion/duplication analysis 5Unknown 6
Unknown 7NA
1.

See Table A. Genes and Databases for chromosome locus and protein.

2.

See Molecular Genetics for information on variants detected in this gene.

3.

Sequence analysis detects variants that are benign, likely benign, of uncertain significance, likely pathogenic, or pathogenic. Variants may include small intragenic deletions/insertions and missense, nonsense, and splice site variants; typically, exon or whole-gene deletions/duplications are not detected. For issues to consider in interpretation of sequence analysis results, click here.

4.
5.

Gene-targeted deletion/duplication analysis detects intragenic deletions or duplications. Methods used may include a range of techniques such as quantitative PCR, long-range PCR, multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA), and a gene-targeted microarray designed to detect single-exon deletions or duplications.

6.

No data on detection rate of gene-targeted deletion/duplication analysis are available. Cherubism occurs through a gain-of-function mechanism; therefore, large intragenic deletions or duplications are unlikely to cause disease.

7.

Failure to identify a SH3BP2 pathogenic variant in 20% of affected individuals suggests possible genetic heterogeneity [Reichenberger et al 2012].

Clinical Characteristics

Clinical Description

Findings associated with cherubism range from clinically unrecognized features to severe mandibular and maxillary overgrowth with dental, orbital/ophthalmologic, respiratory, speech, and swallowing complications [Roginsky et al 2009]. Massive enlargement of the jaws is common and can also be associated with severe pain [Battaglia et al 2000, Timoşca et al 2000, Silva et al 2002, Gomes et al 2005, Wang et al 2006].

Wide variability in facial involvement within the same family was reported in the initial family described and in subsequent case series [Jones et al 1950, Li & Yu 2006, Preda et al 2010, Stoor et al 2017].

Onset and course. Individuals with cherubism have a normal appearance at birth. Usually, cherubism manifests in early childhood (age 2-7 years) and progresses until puberty, when it begins to stabilize and starts to regress. By age 30 years, the facial abnormalities associated with cherubism are not usually recognizable and residual deformity of the jaws is rare [Von Wowern 2000].

Presentation. The disease starts with rapid bone degradation, usually restricted to the mandibular and maxillary regions, and leads to multiple symmetric cystic changes. These cysts are filled with fibrous tissue mass that consists of stromal cells and osteoclast-like cells, resulting in the typical facial phenotype [Ozkan et al 2003].

  • Submandibular and cervical lymph nodes are enlarged during the early stages of cherubism, and may present before the recognition of bony lesions.
  • Mandibular cherubism is more frequent than maxillary [Schultze-Mosgau et al 2003].
  • Aside from the facial anomalies described, cherubism is an isolated benign condition; the affected person has normal intellectual skills and is without other physical anomalies. The following rare exceptions have been reported:

Pathology of lesions. NFATc1 immunohistochemistry on lesional tissue may be helpful in defining a more aggressive form of the disease [Kadlub et al 2016]. The fibroosseous lesions in cherubism are limited to the mandible and maxilla, but the bone inflammatory findings are similar to other autoinflammatory syndromes with bone involvement, such as chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO) and deficiency of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist [Wipff et al 2011, Morbach et al 2013, Kadlub et al 2015, Bader-Meunier et al 2018]. One main difference in the pathology of cherubism, when compared to CRMO, is the degree of osteolysis, which is significantly more profound in cherubism [Wipff et al 2011].

Complications of cherubism may include the following:

  • Jaw. Severe malformation of the jaw may impede physical functions such as chewing and swallowing, and may affect the social and psychological well-being of the individual, therefore forcing a decision on surgery [Pontes et al 2007, Papadaki et al 2012, Wright 2017]. See Treatment of Manifestations.
    • Recurrence of the jaw lesions is possible after surgery.
    • Although the cherubic appearance of patients is expected to be reduced due to involution of the bubble-like distentions of the jaws in early adulthood, this may not be the case for all [Redfors et al 2013].
    • The facial disfigurement in cherubism can affect an individual's feelings of self-worth and be the source of bullying. However, a recent Scandinavian study reported that persons with cherubism were psychosocially well adapted and enjoyed a good quality of life [Prescott et al 2013].
    • Difficulties with pronunciation have not been reported as a significant problem [Prescott et al 2013].
  • Pain. An ache in the mouth and discomfort when eating food are frequently reported [Prescott et al 2013].
  • Dental. In most affected persons, teeth are displaced, unerupted, unformed, or absent, or may appear to be floating in cystlike spaces. Malocclusion, premature exfoliation of deciduous teeth, and root resorption have also been reported [Kozakiewicz et al 2001, Stoor et al 2017].
  • Respiratory. Respiratory problems can include obstructive sleep apnea and upper airway obstruction caused by backward displacement of the tongue [Battaglia et al 2000, Ladhani et al 2003, Khirani et al 2013].
  • Orbital and ophthalmologic. Ophthalmic manifestations of cherubism vary greatly depending on the level of involvement of the maxilla [Mirmohammadsadeghi et al 2015, Yoo et al 2015]. In rare instances, enlargement of the maxilla and penetration of the stromal mass into the orbital floor can cause lower lid retraction, proptosis, strabismus, diplopia, globe displacement, and/or visual loss as a result of optic atrophy, retinal vein occlusion, and macular folds with scarring [Carroll & Sullivan 2001, Font et al 2003]. Prior reports of patients with maxillary involvement leading to orbital mass effect have varied in their ophthalmic sequelae and age of occurrence, with occurrence ranging from age seven to 27 years [Colombo et al 2001, Ahmadi et al 2003]

Genotype-Phenotype Correlations

No genotype/phenotype correlations have been described for cherubism.

Penetrance

Penetrance has not been systematically studied in cherubism. A previous report of reduced penetrance in females compared to males [Anderson &McClendon 1962] was subsequently shown to have bias in terms of how unaffected status was ascribed to the adult females [Reichenberger et al 2012].

Nomenclature

Cherubism was first described as "familial multilocular cystic disease of the jaws" by Jones [1933]; however, shortly thereafter he renamed the condition "cherubism" because of the resemblance of affected individuals to the cherubs in Renaissance art.

Prevalence

Prevalence is unknown. Approximately 300 cases have been reported in the medical literature. Variability of the cherubism phenotype may result in underdiagnosis of the condition in children, and as bone remodeling occurs into adulthood, there may be no evidence of previous disease on imaging in adults despite the presence of a SH3BP2 pathogenic variant.

Differential Diagnosis

Table 2.

Disorders to Consider in the Differential Diagnosis of Cherubism

DisorderGene(s)MOIClinical Features
OverlappingDistinguishing
RASopathies 1 including: BRAF
MAP2K1
NF1
PTPN11
SOS1
KRAS
LZTR1
MAP2K2
NRAS
RAF1
RASA2
RRAS2
RIT1
SOS2
ADGiant-cell lesions of bones & soft tissues frequently found in jawsRASopathies:
  • Characteristic facial & neurocutaneous findings
  • Congenital anomalies in multiple systems
Central giant-cell granuloma 2Unknown 3Unknown
  • Benign lesion usually occurring in mandible & maxilla
  • Histologically, central giant-cell granuloma cannot be separated from cherubism.
Lesions in:
  • Central giant-cell granuloma: most often unilocular
  • Cherubism: usually multilocular
Fibrous dysplasia / McCune-Albright syndrome (FD/MAS) GNAS1 See footnote 4.Craniofacial form of FD/MAS may show clinical & radiologic overlap w/cherubism & thus be difficult to differentiate. 5Fibrous dysplasia:
  • Lesions affecting other body parts incl femur, tibia, or ribs (rarely seen in cherubism)
  • Absence of typical symmetric swelling of lower face (typical of cherubism)
  • On plain films, a characteristic ground-glass pattern
MAS:
  • Café au lait macules
  • Endocrine abnormalities
  • Chronic bony involvement that does not resolve at puberty
Hyperparathyroidism-jaw tumor (HPT-JT) syndrome (See CDC73-Related Disorders.) CDC73 AD
  • Benign ossifying fibromas of mandible or maxilla
  • Occasionally bilateral/multifocal & recurrent
HPT-JT: hyperparathyroidism
Familial isolated hyperparathyroidism
(OMIM PS145000)
CDC73
MEN1 6
CASR
GCM2
AD
AR
  • Brown tumors (rare benign giant-cell lesions) resulting from parathyroid hormone effects on bone tissue in persons w/hyperparathyroidism
  • Can occur in both maxilla & mandible 7
Hyperparathyroidism: ↑ serum concentrations of calcium, parathyroid hormone, & alkaline phosphatase 6
Ramon syndrome
(OMIM 266270)
UnknownUnknownGingival fibromatosisRamon syndrome:
  • Short stature
  • Epilepsy
  • Intellectual disability

AD = autosomal dominant; AR = autosomal recessive; MOI = mode of inheritance; XL = X-linked

1.

RASopathies refers to disorders of the RAS-MAPK pathway.

2.
3.

A somatic pathogenic variant in SH3BP2 has been identified in one individual with central giant-cell granuloma [Carvalho et al 2009].

4.

Fibrous dysplasia / McCune-Albright syndrome, a sporadically occurring disorder, is caused by an early embryonic postzygotic somatic activating (gain-of-function) pathogenic variant in GNAS (encoding the cAMP pathway-associated G-protein, Gsα).

5.
6.

Familial isolated hyperparathyroidism (FIHP) is characterized by parathyroid adenoma or hyperplasia without other associated endocrinopathies. Heterozygous MEN1 germline pathogenic variants have been reported in 20% [Miedlich et al 2001, Villablanca et al 2002] to 57% [Pannett et al 2003] of families with FIHP.

7.

Cherubism has also been reported in (likely coincidental) association with a single case of coronal and sagittal craniosynostosis [Stiller et al 2000].

Management

Evaluations Following Initial Diagnosis

To establish the extent of disease in an individual diagnosed with cherubism, the following evaluations are recommended if they have not already been completed:

  • Radiologic assessment to determine facial bone involvement. Computed tomography (CT utilizing the "as low as reasonably achievable" principle to minimize radiation) is currently the imaging modality most suitable to study bone lesions of the maxillofacial complex, enabling a precise evaluation of the components of the lesion [Pinheiro et al 2013]. However, evaluation of lesions encroaching on neurovascular or ocular structures may require a multimodality approach, which includes MRI [Cordeiro et al 2016, Purohit et al 2016]. The MRI findings of individual cherubism lesions are not specific to lesions caused by mutations in SH3BP2 [Beaman et al 2004, Jain & Sharma 2006].
  • Evaluation in a craniofacial clinic including oral and maxillofacial surgery, plastic surgery, dentistry/orthodontics, otolaryngology, and child psychology or social work
  • Orthodontic assessment to align tilted teeth is usually required after osseous growth is completed, but may be required concomitantly with fixed orthodontic appliances.
  • Ophthalmologic examination
  • Assessment of respiratory status including determining the presence or absence of mouth breathing, snoring, chronic nasal infection, and obstructive sleep apnea. An overnight polysomnogram should be considered if concerns regarding sleep-disordered breathing are present.
  • Assessment by a speech therapist to include a swallowing assessment to determine if there is backward displacement of the tongue or obliteration of the nasal airway
  • Consultation with a clinical geneticist and/or genetic counselor

Treatment of Manifestations

Treatment protocols for the complications of cherubism are not well established and are evolving due to recent advances in understanding the autoinflammatory nature of this bone disease. Given that cherubism is considered to be a self-limited condition that improves over time, treatment should be tailored to the individual's presentation and the evolution of the disease. Depending on the severity, surgery may be needed for functional and esthetic concerns.

  • Children with cherubism should be referred to a craniofacial clinic with pediatric experience for ongoing management. A craniofacial clinic associated with a major pediatric medical center usually includes a surgical team, dentist, orthodontic specialist, ophthalmologist, and child psychologist or social worker.
  • Surgical interventions include curettage with or without bone grafting [Kozakiewicz et al 2001, Roginsky et al 2009]. Liposuction has also been used successfully to re-contour the jaws. Surgical interventions are likely to occur between ages five and 15 years in individuals with disfiguring enlargement of jaws or locally aggressive lesions associated with complications such as impaired swallowing, respiratory issues, nasal airway obstruction, or tongue displacement.
    Surgical therapy needs to be individually tailored and not create unrealistic expectations since recurrence of the lesions is possible and surgery may not halt disease progression [Friedrich et al 2016].
  • Orthodontic treatment is commonly required as the jaw distortion leads to permanent dental abnormalities including a malocclusive bite, premature loss of deciduous teeth, and widely spaced, misplaced, unerupted, or absent permanent teeth.
  • Ophthalmologic treatment is necessary in rare individuals in whom orbital manifestations such as lower lid retraction, proptosis, diplopia, globe displacement, and visual loss caused by optic atrophy are present.
  • Speech and language therapy may be necessary in rare cases where physical obstruction to the production of speech or swallowing is present.

Surveillance

Surveillance may reduce the risk for secondary complications such as visual impairment, upper airway obstruction, obstructive sleep apnea, and tooth displacement. Long-term follow up including clinical, radiographic, dental, orthodontic, and ophthalmologic evaluations is indicated [Silva et al 2007]. Expert-authored guidelines recommend annual reviews while new cysts continue to form or established cysts enlarge; after the disorder becomes quiescent, follow up every two to five years is recommended [Papadaki et al 2012].

Evaluation of Relatives at Risk

It is appropriate to evaluate apparently asymptomatic at-risk relatives in order to identify as early as possible those who would benefit from surveillance and early intervention. Evaluations can include:

  • Molecular genetic testing if the pathogenic variant in the family is known.
  • Clinical and radiographic evaluations if the pathogenic variant in the family is not known.

See Genetic Counseling for issues related to testing of at-risk relatives for genetic counseling purposes.

Therapies Under Investigation

Search ClinicalTrials.gov in the US and EU Clinical Trials Register in Europe for information on clinical studies for a wide range of diseases and conditions. Note: There may not be clinical trials for this disorder.

Genetic Counseling

Genetic counseling is the process of providing individuals and families with information on the nature, mode(s) of inheritance, and implications of genetic disorders to help them make informed medical and personal decisions. The following section deals with genetic risk assessment and the use of family history and genetic testing to clarify genetic status for family members; it is not meant to address all personal, cultural, or ethical issues that may arise or to substitute for consultation with a genetics professional. —ED.

Mode of Inheritance

Cherubism is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner.

Risk to Family Members

Parents of a proband

  • Some individuals diagnosed with cherubism have an affected parent.
  • Most individuals diagnosed with cherubism represent simplex cases (i.e., a single occurrence in a family) and are presumed to have the disorder as the result of a de novo pathogenic variant.
  • Molecular genetic testing is recommended for the parents of a proband with an apparent de novo pathogenic variant.
  • If the pathogenic variant found in the proband cannot be detected in the leukocyte DNA of either parent, possible explanations include a de novo pathogenic variant in the proband or germline mosaicism in a parent. Though theoretically possible, no instances of germline mosaicism have been reported.
  • The family history of some individuals diagnosed with cherubism may appear to be negative because of failure to recognize the disorder in family members, reduced penetrance, or a milder phenotypic presentation. Therefore, an apparently negative family history cannot be confirmed unless molecular genetic testing has been performed on the parents of the proband.
  • Note: If the parent is the individual in whom the pathogenic variant first occurred, the parent may have somatic mosaicism for the variant and may be mildly/minimally affected.

Sibs of a proband. The risk to the sibs of the proband depends on the genetic status of the proband's parents:

  • If a parent of the proband is affected and/or is known to have the pathogenic variant identified in the proband, the risk to sibs of inheriting the pathogenic variant is 50%. Variable expressivity and reduced penetrance have been observed in cherubism.
  • If the SH3BP2 pathogenic variant found in the proband cannot be detected in the leukocyte DNA of either parent, the recurrence risk to sibs is estimated to be 1% because of the theoretic possibility of parental germline mosaicism [Rahbari et al 2016].
  • If the parents have not been tested for the SH3BP2 pathogenic variant but are clinically unaffected, the risk to the sibs of a proband appears to be low. However, the sibs of a proband with clinically unaffected parents are still at increased risk for cherubism because of the possibility of reduced penetrance in a parent or the theoretic possibility of parental germline mosaicism.

Offspring of a proband. Each child of an individual with cherubism has a 50% chance of inheriting the pathogenic variant.

Other family members. The risk to other family members depends on the status of the proband's parents: if a parent has the SH3BP2 pathogenic variant and/or is clinically affected, the parent's family members may be at risk.

Related Genetic Counseling Issues

See Management, Evaluation of Relatives at Risk for information on testing at-risk relatives for the purpose of early diagnosis and treatment.

Considerations in families with an apparent de novo pathogenic variant. When neither parent of a proband with an autosomal dominant condition has the pathogenic variant identified in the proband or clinical evidence of the disorder, it is likely that the proband has a de novo pathogenic variant. However, possible non-medical explanations including alternate paternity or maternity (e.g., with assisted reproduction) and undisclosed adoption could also be explored.

Family planning

  • The optimal time for determination of genetic risk and discussion of the availability of prenatal/preimplantation genetic testing is before pregnancy.
  • It is appropriate to offer genetic counseling (including discussion of potential risks to offspring and reproductive options) to young adults who are affected or at risk.

DNA banking. Because it is likely that testing methodology and our understanding of genes, pathogenic mechanisms, and diseases will improve in the future, consideration should be given to banking DNA from probands in whom a molecular diagnosis has not been confirmed (i.e., the causative pathogenic mechanism is unknown). For more information, see Huang et al [2022].

Prenatal Testing and Preimplantation Genetic Testing

Once the SH3BP2 pathogenic variant has been identified in an affected family member, prenatal testing for a pregnancy at increased risk and preimplantation genetic testing are possible.

Differences in perspective may exist among medical professionals and within families regarding the use of prenatal testing. While most centers would consider use of prenatal testing to be a personal decision, discussion of these issues may be helpful.

Resources

GeneReviews staff has selected the following disease-specific and/or umbrella support organizations and/or registries for the benefit of individuals with this disorder and their families. GeneReviews is not responsible for the information provided by other organizations. For information on selection criteria, click here.

Molecular Genetics

Information in the Molecular Genetics and OMIM tables may differ from that elsewhere in the GeneReview: tables may contain more recent information. —ED.

Table A.

Cherubism: Genes and Databases

GeneChromosome LocusProteinLocus-Specific DatabasesHGMDClinVar
SH3BP2 4p16​.3 SH3 domain-binding protein 2 SH3BP2 database SH3BP2 SH3BP2

Data are compiled from the following standard references: gene from HGNC; chromosome locus from OMIM; protein from UniProt. For a description of databases (Locus Specific, HGMD, ClinVar) to which links are provided, click here.

Table B.

OMIM Entries for Cherubism (View All in OMIM)

118400CHERUBISM
602104SH3 DOMAIN-BINDING PROTEIN 2; SH3BP2

Gene structure. The SH3BP2 transcript spans approximately 2.4 kb and comprises 13 exons. The gene was identified in a search for candidate tumor suppressor genes [Bell et al 1997]. For a detailed summary of gene and protein information, see Table A, Gene.

Pathogenic variants. Sequence analysis of exon 9 of SH3BP2 detects an estimated 80% of pathogenic variants in individuals tested [Ueki et al 2001, Reichenberger et al 2012]. Reported pathogenic variants are missense that mainly cluster within a six-amino-acid sequence from p.Arg415 to p.Gly420. Pathogenic variants in remaining exons are rare [Ueki et al 2001, Lo et al 2003, Lietman et al 2006]. A pathogenic missense variant in exon 4 in the pleckstrin homology domain has been described by Carvalho et al [2009] in an individual with cherubism.

Table 3.

SH3BP2 Pathogenic Variants Discussed in This GeneReview

DNA Nucleotide ChangePredicted Protein ChangeReference Sequences
c.1253C>Gp.Pro418Arg NM_003023​.4
NP_003014​.3

Variants listed in the table have been provided by the authors. GeneReviews staff have not independently verified the classification of variants.

GeneReviews follows the standard naming conventions of the Human Genome Variation Society (varnomen​.hgvs.org). See Quick Reference for an explanation of nomenclature.

Normal gene product. SH3BP2 encodes the adaptor protein SH3-domain binding protein 2 (3BP-2), which is required in several intracellular protein tyrosine kinase-dependent signaling pathways during hematopoietic cell differentiation and function [Foucault et al 2005]. 3BP-2 positively regulates the activity of the transcription factor NFAT, which is involved in osteoclastogenesis [Lietman et al 2008]. 3BP-2 contains the following:

  • An N-terminal pleckstrin homology (PH) domain
  • A proline-rich stretch that binds to Src holomolgy (SH) 3 domain-containing proteins
  • A C-terminal SH2 domain that binds to phosphotyrosine residues [Deckert 2006]

Abnormal gene product. Cherubism results from pathogenic variants that are primarily clustered within peptide sequence RSPPDG lying between the PH and SH2 domains. It is unclear how abnormal 3BP-2 causes excessive bone resorption and soft tissue proliferation primarily restricted to the jaws, and why cherubism lesions regress after puberty. A knock-in mouse model with the most common pathogenic variant in human 3BP-2 (p.Pro418Arg) develops severe osteoporosis associated with highly activated osteoclasts, demonstrating that pathogenic variants within this peptide sequence result in a gain-of-function activity [Ueki et al 2007, Wang et al 2010].

It has been proposed that the bone autoinflammation is the result of toll-like receptors (TLR) reacting to oral flora and damage-associated molecular patterns during jaw remodeling. Cherubism lesions usually begin to regress after puberty by mechanisms that may involve the TLR-myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MYD88) pathway [Yoshitaka et al 2014, Prod'Homme et al 2015].

Chapter Notes

Author History

Berivan Baskin, PhD, FCCMG, FACMG (2007-present)

Sarah Bowdin, BM, MSc, MRCPCH (2011-present)

Peter Kannu, MB ChB, PhD, DCH, FRACP, FRCPC (2018-present)

Peter N Ray, PhD, FCCMG, FACMG; University of Toronto (2007-2018)

Ahmad Teebi, MD, FRCPC, FACMG; Weill Cornell Medical College - Qatar (2007-2011)

Revision History

  • 21 November 2018 (ha) Comprehensive update posted live
  • 1 September 2011 (me) Comprehensive update posted live
  • 26 February 2007 (me) Review posted live
  • 8 December 2006 (pr) Original submission

References

Literature Cited

  • Ahmadi AJ, Pirinjian GE, Sires BS (2003) Optic neuropathy and macular chorioretinal folds caused by orbital cherubism. Arch Ophthalmol 121:570-3 [PubMed: 12695257]
  • Anderson DE, McClendon JL (1962) Cherubism-hereditary fibrous dysplasia of the jaws; genetic considerations. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol 15 Suppl 2:5-16
  • Bader-Meunier B, Van Nieuwenhove E, Breton S, Wouters C (2018) Bone involvement in monogenic autoinflammatory syndromes. Rheumatology (Oxford) 57:606-18 [PubMed: 28968889]
  • Battaglia A, Merati A, Magit A (2000) Cherubism and upper airway obstruction. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 122:573-4 [PubMed: 10740181]
  • Beaman FD, Bancroft LW, Peterson JJ, Kransdorf MJ, Murphey MD, Menke DM (2004) Imaging characteristics of cherubism. AJR Am J Roentgenol 182: 1051-4 [PubMed: 15039186]
  • Bell SM, Shaw M, Jou YS, Myers RM, Knowles MA (1997) Identification and characterization of the human homologue of SH3BP2, an SH3 binding domain protein within a common region of deletion at 4p16.3 involved in bladder cancer. Genomics 44:163-70 [PubMed: 9299232]
  • Carroll AL, Sullivan TJ (2001) Orbital involvement in cherubism. Clin Experiment Ophthalmol 29:38-40 [PubMed: 11272784]
  • Carvalho VM, Perdigão PF, Amaral FR, de Souza PEA, De Marco L, Gomez RS (2009) Novel mutations in the SH3BP2 gene associated with sporadic central giant lesions and cherubism. Oral Dis: 15:106-10 [PubMed: 19017279]
  • Colombo F, Cursiefen C, Neukam FW, Holbach LM (2001) Orbital involvement in cherubism. Ophthalmology 108:1884-8 [PubMed: 11581066]
  • Cordeiro MS, Backes AR, Júnior AF, Gonçalves EH, de Oliveira JX (2016) Fibrous dysplasia characterization using lacunarity analysis. J Digit Imaging 29:134-40 [PMC free article: PMC4722029] [PubMed: 26307180]
  • Davis GB, Sinn DP, Watson SW (1983) Case 43, part II: Cherubism. J Oral Maxillofac Surg 41:119–20 [PubMed: 6571880]
  • De Lange J, Van den Akker HP (2005) Clinical and radiological features of central giant-cell lesions of the jaw. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 99:464-70 [PubMed: 15772595]
  • Deckert M. [The adaptor protein 3BP2 in leukocyte signaling]. Article in French. Med Sci (Paris). 2006;22:1081-6. [PubMed: 17156730]
  • Fonseca LC, de Freitas JB, Maciel PH, Cavalcanti MG (2004) Temporal bone involvement in cherubism: case report. Braz Dent J 15:75–8 [PubMed: 15322650]
  • Font RL, Blanco G, Soparkar CN, Patrinely JR, Ostrowski ML (2003) Giant cell reparative granuloma of the orbit associated with cherubism. Ophthalmology 110:1846-9 [PubMed: 13129888]
  • Foucault I, Le Bras S, Charvet C, Moon C, Altman A, Deckert M (2005) The adaptor protein 3BP2 associates with VAV guanine nucleotide exchange factors to regulate NFAT activation by the B-cell antigen receptor. Blood 105:1106-13 [PubMed: 15345594]
  • Friedrich RE, Scheuer HA, Zustin J, Grob T. Cherubism: a case report with surgical intervention. Anticancer Res. 2016;36:3109-15. [PubMed: 27272835]
  • Gomes MF, de Souza Setubal Destro MF, de Freitas Banzi EC, dos Santos SH, Claro FA, de Oliveira Nogueira T (2005) Aggressive behaviour of cherubism in a teenager: 4-years of clinical follow-up associated with radiographic and histological features. Dentomaxillofac Radiol 34:313-8 [PubMed: 16120883]
  • Huang SJ, Amendola LM, Sternen DL. Variation among DNA banking consent forms: points for clinicians to bank on. J Community Genet. 2022;13:389-97. [PMC free article: PMC9314484] [PubMed: 35834113]
  • Jain V, Sharma R. Radiographic, CT and MRI features of cherubism. Pediatr Radiol. 2006;36:1099-104 [PubMed: 16847596]
  • Jones WA (1933) Familial multilocular cystic disease of the jaws. Am J Cancer 17:946.
  • Jones WA, Gerrie J, Pritchard J (1950) Cherubism – familial fibrous dysplasia of the jaws. J Bone Joint Surg Br 32-B(3):334-47 [PubMed: 14778852]
  • Kadlub N, Sessiecq Q, Dainese L, Joly A, Lehalle D, Marlin S, Badoual C, Galmiche L, Majoufre-Lefebvre C, Berdal A, Deckert M, Vazquez M, Descroix V, Coudert AE, Picard A (2016) Defining a new aggressiveness classification and using NFATc1 localization as a prognostic factor in cherubism. Hum Pathol 58:62-71 [PubMed: 27498064]
  • Kadlub N, Vazquez MP, Galmiche L, L'Herminé AC, Dainese L, Ulinski T, Fauroux B, Pavlov I, Badoual C, Marlin S, Deckert M, Leboulanger N, Berdal A, Descroix V, Picard A, Coudert AE (2015) The calcineurin inhibitor tacrolimus as a new therapy in severe cherubism. J Bone Miner Res 30:878-85 [PubMed: 25491283]
  • Khirani S, Kadlub N, Delord V, Picard A, Fauroux B (2013) Nocturnal mouthpiece ventilation and medical hypnosis to treat severe obstructive sleep apnea in a child with cherubism. Pediatr Pulmonol 48:927-9 [PubMed: 23129383]
  • Kozakiewicz M, Perczynska-Partyka W, Kobos J (2001) Cherubism--clinical picture and treatment. Oral Dis 7:123-30 [PubMed: 11355438]
  • Ladhani S, Sundaram P, Joshi JM (2003) Sleep disordered breathing in an adult with cherubism. Thorax 58:552 [PMC free article: PMC1746697] [PubMed: 12775879]
  • Lessa MM, Sakae FA, Tsuji RK, Filho BC, Voegels RL, Butugan O (2005) Brown tumor of the facial bones: case report and literature review. Ear Nose Throat J 84:432-4 [PubMed: 16813033]
  • Li CY, Yu SF (2006) A novel mutation in the SH3BP2 gene causes cherubism: case report. BMC Med Genet 7:84 [PMC free article: PMC1764878] [PubMed: 17147794]
  • Lietman SA, Kalinchinko N, Deng X, Kohanski R, Levine MA (2006) Identification of a novel mutation of SH3BP2 in cherubism and demonstration that SH3BP2 mutations lead to increased NFAT activation. Hum Mutat 27:717-8 [PubMed: 16786512]
  • Lietman SA, Yin L, Levine MA (2008) SH3BP2 is an activator of NFAT activity and osteoclastogenesis. Biochem Biophys Res Commun: 371:644-8 [PMC free article: PMC2760267] [PubMed: 18440306]
  • Ling E, Zeltser R, Makarov V (2015) A case of cherubism with spondyloarthropathy. Int J Rheum Dis 18:681–4 [PubMed: 25960037]
  • Lo B, Faiyaz-Ul-Haque M, Kennedy S, Aviv R, Tsui LC, Teebi AS (2003) Novel mutation in the gene encoding c-Abl-binding protein SH3BP2 causes cherubism. Am J Med Genet A. 121A:37-40. [PubMed: 12900899]
  • Miedlich S, Lohmann T, Schneyer U, Lamesch P, Paschke R. Familial isolated primary hyperparathyroidism--a multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 variant? Eur J Endocrinol. 2001;145:155-60. [PubMed: 11454510]
  • Mirmohammadsadeghi A, Eshraghi B, Shahsanaei A, Assari R (2015) Cherubism: report of three cases and literature review. Orbit 34:33-7 [PubMed: 25264591]
  • Morbach H, Hedrich CM, Beer M, Girschick HJ (2013) Autoinflammatory bone disorders. Clin Immunol 147:185-96 [PubMed: 23369460]
  • Ozkan Y, Varol A, Turker N, Aksakalli N, Basa S (2003) Clinical and radiological evaluation of cherubism: a sporadic case report and review of the literature. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 67:1005-12 [PubMed: 12907058]
  • Pannett AA, Kennedy AM, Turner JJ, Forbes SA, Cavaco BM, Bassett JH, Cianferotti L, Harding B, Shine B, Flinter F, Maidment CG, Trembath R, Thakker RV. Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) germline mutations in familial isolated primary hyperparathyroidism. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf). 2003;58:639-46. [PubMed: 12699448]
  • Papadaki ME, Lietman SA, Levine MA, Olsen BR, Kaban LB, Reichenberger EJ (2012) Cherubism: best clinical practice. Orphanet J Rare Dis 7:S6 [PMC free article: PMC3359956] [PubMed: 22640403]
  • Pinheiro LR, Pinheiro JJ, Júnior SA, Guerreiro N, Cavalcanti MG (2013) Clinical and imagiological findings of central giant cell lesion and cherubism. Braz Dent J 24:74-9 [PubMed: 23657418]
  • Pontes FS, Ferreira AC, Kato AM, Pontes HA, Almeida DS, Rodini CO, Pinto DS Jr (2007) Aggressive case of cherubism: 17-year follow up. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 71:831-5 [PubMed: 17360048]
  • Preda L, Dinca O, Bucur A, Dragomir C, Severin E (2010) Identical mutation in SH3BP2 gene causes clinical phenotypes with different severity in mother and daughter - case report. Mol Syndromol 1:87-90 [PMC free article: PMC2941844] [PubMed: 21045962]
  • Prescott T, Redfors M, Rustad CF, Eiklid KL, Geirdal AØ, Storhaug K, Jensen JL (2013) Characterization of a Norwegian cherubism cohort; molecular genetic findings, oral manifestations and quality of life. Eur J Med Genet 56:131-7 [PubMed: 23298620]
  • Prod'Homme V, Boyer L, Dubois N, Mallavialle A, Munro P, Mouska X, Coste I, Rottapel R, Tartare-Deckert S, Deckert M (2015) Cherubism allele heterozygosity amplifies microbe-induced inflammatory responses in murine macrophages. J Clin Invest 125:1396-400 [PMC free article: PMC4396483] [PubMed: 25705883]
  • Purohit BS, Vargas MI, Ailianou A, Merlini L, Poletti PA, Platon A, Delattre BM, Rager O, Burkhardt K, Becker M (2016) Orbital tumours and tumour-like lesions: exploring the armamentarium of multiparametric imaging. Insights Imaging 7:43-68 [PMC free article: PMC4729705] [PubMed: 26518678]
  • Rahbari R, Wuster A, Lindsay SJ, Hardwick RJ, Alexandrov LB, Turki SA, Dominiczak A, Morris A, Porteous D, Smith B, Stratton MR, Hurles ME, et al. Timing, rates and spectra of human germline mutation. Nat Genet. 2016; 48:126-33. [PMC free article: PMC4731925] [PubMed: 26656846]
  • Redfors M, Jensen JL, Storhaug K, Prescott T, Larheim TA (2013) Cherubism: panoramic and CT features in adults. Dentomaxillofac Radiol 42:20130034 [PMC free article: PMC3853512] [PubMed: 24048692]
  • Reichenberger EJ, Levine MA, Olsen BR, Papadaki ME, Lietman SA. The role of SH3BP2 in the pathophysiology of cherubism. Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2012;7:S5 [PMC free article: PMC3359958] [PubMed: 22640988]
  • Roginsky VV, Ivanov AL, Ovtchinnikov A, Khonari RH (2009) Familial cherubism: the experience of the Moscow Central Institute for Stomatology and Maxillo-Facial Surgery. Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg 38:218-23 [PubMed: 19038533]
  • Schultze-Mosgau S, Holbach LM, Wiltfang J (2003) Cherubism: clinical evidence and therapy. J Craniofac Surg 14: 201-6 [PubMed: 12621291]
  • Silva EC, de Souza PE, Barreto DC, Dias RP, Gomez RS (2002) An extreme case of cherubism. Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg 40:45-8 [PubMed: 11883969]
  • Silva GC, Gomez RS, Vieira TC, Silva EC (2007) Cherubism: long-term follow-up of 2 patients in whom it regressed without treatment. Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 45:567-70. [PubMed: 17030358]
  • Stiller M, Urban M, Golder W, Tiziani V, Reichenberger E, Frege J, Opitz C, Peters H (2000) Craniosynostosis in cherubism. Am J Med Genet 95:325-31 [PubMed: 11186885]
  • Stoor P, Suomalainen A, Kemola M, Atre S (2017) Craniofacial and dental features in six children with cherubism. J Craniofac Surg 28:1806-11 [PubMed: 28857986]
  • Timoşca GC, Găleşanu RM, Cotuţiu C, Grigoraş M (2000) Aggressive form of cherubism: report of a case. J Oral Maxillofac Surg 58:336-44 [PubMed: 10716121]
  • Ueki Y, Lin CY, Senoo M, Ebihara T, Agata N, Onji M, Saheki Y, Kawai T, Mukherjee PM, Reichenberger E, Olsen BR (2007) Increased myeloid cell responses to M-CSF and RANKL cause bone loss and inflammation in SH3BP2 "cherubism" mice. Cell 128:71-83 [PubMed: 17218256]
  • Ueki Y, Tiziani V, Santanna C, Fukai N, Maulik C, Garfinkle J, Ninomiya C, doAmaral C, Peters H, Habal M, Rhee-Morris L, Doss JB, Kreiborg S, Olsen BR, Reichenberger E (2001) Mutations in the gene encoding c-Abl-binding protein SH3BP2 cause cherubism. Nat Genet 28:125-6 [PubMed: 11381256]
  • Villablanca A, Wassif WS, Smith T, Höög A, Vierimaa O, Kassem M, Dwight T, Forsberg L, Du Q, Learoyd D, Jones K, Stranks S, Juhlin C, Teh BT, Carling T, Robinson B, Larsson C. Involvement of the MEN1 gene locus in familial isolated hyperparathyroidism. Eur J Endocrinol. 2002;147:313-22. [PubMed: 12213668]
  • Von Wowern N (2000) Cherubism: a 36-year long-term follow-up of 2 generations in different families and review of the literature. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 90:765-72 [PubMed: 11113824]
  • Wang CJ, Chen IP, Koczon-Jaremko B, Boskey AL, Ueki Y, Khun L, Reichenberger EJ (2010) Pro416Arg cherubism mutation in sh3bp2 knock-in mice affects osteoblasts and alters bone mineral and matrix properties. Bone: 46:1306-15 [PMC free article: PMC2854251] [PubMed: 20117257]
  • Wang CN, Song YL, Peng B, Lu DH, Fan MW, Li J, Ye XQ, Fan HL, Bian Z (2006) The aggressive form of cherubism: report of two cases in unrelated families. Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg 44:322-4. [PubMed: 16310907]
  • Wayman JB (1978) Cherubism: a report on three cases. British Journal of Oral Surgery 16:47–56 [PubMed: 280370]
  • Wipff J, Adamsbaum C, Kahan A, Job-Deslandre C (2011) Chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis. Joint Bone Spine 78:555-60 [PubMed: 21441060]
  • Wright V (2017) What it feels like to have a facial disfigurement. BMJ 358:j4068 [PubMed: 28903929]
  • Yoo SH, Pineles SL, Jarrahy R, Velez FG. Ophthalmic manifestations of cherubism. J AAPOS. 2015;19:70-2. [PMC free article: PMC4503315] [PubMed: 25727591]
  • Yoshitaka T, Mukai T, Kittaka M, Alford LM, Masrani S, Ishida S, Yamaguchi K, Yamada M, Mizuno N, Olsen BR, Reichenberger EJ, Ueki Y (2014) Enhanced TLR-MYD88 signaling stimulates autoinflammation in SH3BP2 cherubism mice and defines the etiology of cherubism. Cell Rep 8:1752-66 [PMC free article: PMC4177302] [PubMed: 25220465]
  • Zohar Y, Grausbord R, Shabtai F, Talmi Y (1989) Fibrous dysplasia and cherubism as an hereditary familial disease. Follow-up of four generations. J Craniomaxillofac Surg 17:340-4 [PubMed: 2592573]
Copyright © 1993-2024, University of Washington, Seattle. GeneReviews is a registered trademark of the University of Washington, Seattle. All rights reserved.

GeneReviews® chapters are owned by the University of Washington. Permission is hereby granted to reproduce, distribute, and translate copies of content materials for noncommercial research purposes only, provided that (i) credit for source (http://www.genereviews.org/) and copyright (© 1993-2024 University of Washington) are included with each copy; (ii) a link to the original material is provided whenever the material is published elsewhere on the Web; and (iii) reproducers, distributors, and/or translators comply with the GeneReviews® Copyright Notice and Usage Disclaimer. No further modifications are allowed. For clarity, excerpts of GeneReviews chapters for use in lab reports and clinic notes are a permitted use.

For more information, see the GeneReviews® Copyright Notice and Usage Disclaimer.

For questions regarding permissions or whether a specified use is allowed, contact: ude.wu@tssamda.

Bookshelf ID: NBK1137PMID: 20301316

Views

Tests in GTR by Gene

Related information

  • MedGen
    Related information in MedGen
  • OMIM
    Related OMIM records
  • PMC
    PubMed Central citations
  • PubMed
    Links to PubMed
  • Gene
    Locus Links

Similar articles in PubMed

See reviews...See all...

Recent Activity

Your browsing activity is empty.

Activity recording is turned off.

Turn recording back on

See more...