Congenital epulis Case report and literature review.

Abstract

Introduction: Congenital epulis, also known as congenital granular cell tumor or Neumann tumor, is a rare benign lesion that appears in the oral cavity of neonates, with a marked preference for the female sex and the anterior maxillary gingiva.

Clinical case: A term female newborn presented with an exophytic mass of approximately 2 cm on the anterior maxillary gingiva, detected at birth and interfering with feeding. A surgical resection was performed under general anesthesia, without complications. The histopathological study was consistent with congenital epulis.

Discussion: Congenital epulis is a neoplasm exclusive to the neonatal period, characterized by granular cells positive for vimentin and negative for S100, with no potential for recurrence or malignant transformation. Surgical resection is indicated when it affects vital functions such as feeding or breathing.

Conclusion: Congenital epulis should be considered in the presence of oral masses in neonates. Its clinical and histological diagnosis allows for effective surgical treatment with an excellent prognosis.