Congenital Epulis with Feeding Difficulty: A Case Report.

Kim, Jee Nam; Choi, Hyun Gon; Hwang, Eun A; Kim, Soon Heum; Park, Hyung Jun; Shin, Dong Hyeok; Uhm, Ki Il

Case Report

Journal of Korean Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association 2011;12(2):121-124.

Jee Nam Kim, Hyun Gon Choi, Eun A Hwang, Soon Heum Kim, Hyung Jun Park, Dong Hyeok Shin, Ki Il Uhm

Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea. kiumps@hanmail.net

Abstract

PURPOSE
The congenital epulis is a rare, benign tumor. It can protrude out of the newborn's mouth to prevent normal closure of the mouth and it can interfere with respiration or feeding. METHODS: An 11-day old female neonate presented with a 1.5x1.5x2.3cm sized mass in the gingival and anterior alveolar ridge of the mandible. We performed a simple excision.
RESULTS
In our case, histologically, there was no pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia. The staining for S-100 protein, and actin was negative. After 8 months, the patient had normal teeth eruption and no recurrence of the tumor.
CONCLUSION
With early detection and appropriate treatment, we were able to help the baby avoid developing any dyspnea. Nursing was possible after the mass had been removed.

Keywords: Congenital epulis