Fibro-osseous disease: harmonizing terminology with biology.

Classification systems and associated terminology are inherently slow in reflecting rapidly unfolding scientific discoveries in the mechanism and presentation of diseases. Misleading concepts, which often have historical value only, may become entrenched in the literature, leading to confusion and inaccurate communication. The purpose of this communication is to stimulate discussion and debate on inappropriate terminology associated with fibro-osseous disease that continues to be perpetuated in the literature. Use of the terms "cementum," "aggressive," "active," "gigantiform," and "maturation" are questioned, and the criteria applied to the interpretation of secondary changes in fibro-osseous lesions critically are evaluated.