Late‐Onset Nonhereditary Cherubism: First Reported Case in Ghana With Review of Diagnostic and Management Challenges

Our patient had the onset of the disorder at age 12 but presented to the hospital at the age of 21. The reason why our patient did not seek medical help beforehand could be attributed to sociocultural beliefs, financial constraints and/or limited access to healthcare amenities. Treatment protocols for cherubism may include observation, surgery and medical therapy. Our patient resorted to the use of traditional medicine and spiritual/religious consultations for treatment. Our patient experienced discrimination due to the disease and had lost job, friendship and romantic relationship opportunities because of cultural beliefs, stereotypes and stigmatisation. Her facial disfigurement and the deformities are associated with bad omens and negative spirits in Ghana. When diagnosed, patients suffering from cherubism must be encouraged to seek information, education and appropriate individualised evidence-based management from hospitals. Treatment of the disease should be supported with psychological counselling and community sensitisation wherever possible.