Congenital Epulis of the Newborn: A Case Report

Background: Congenital epulis (CE) also known as congenital granuler cell tumor is a rarely encountered pathology the majority of which originates from the gingival mucosa, particularly the anterior portion of the maxillary alveolar ridge. CE mostly seen in girls. CE with unclear histogenesis and etiology is seen at birth as a solitary mass in oral cavity. Apart from non-congenital epulis, it contains granular cells. So lesion is named congenital granular cell tumor. CE has a benign histopathology and after surgery there is no recurrence reported in the literature. Aim: The purpose of this case report, is to present, 5 day-old female neonatal girl who was seen CE on the left maxillary alveolar ridge on the region of the future incisors. Case Presentation: The tumoral lesion was well-circumscribed and 10 mm in diameter, smooth surfaced and red in colour much like alveolar mucosal tissue. Tumoral lesion was affecting oral feeding due to obstruction. Excisional biopsy was performed under topical anesthesia. The histopathology was reported as congenital epulis. During the 4 months follow-up, we have seen no complication. Conclusion: CE is a neonatal congenital tumor which is very rare. The treatment of CE is surgical excision. Unless the early treatment is not executed, tumor may cause difficulties in oral feeding and respiration. Therefore it should be excised in an early period.