Congenital granular cell epulis of a newborn

Abstract

The congenital granular cell epulis (CGCE) is a rare tumor, which is apparent at birth. The histogenesis is still uncertain, but several theories, including origin from epithelial, undifferentiated mesenchymal cells, pericytes, fibroblasts, smooth muscle cells, and nerve‑related cells have been proposed. This case report describes management of a 2‑day‑old baby girl having a large, round, soft, single 3 × 4 cm, pedunculated swelling, on the lower anterior ridge, which was causing difficulty in feeding. Clinical diagnosis of congenital epulis (CE) was made and lesion was excised under conscious sedation. A vessel running over the surface of the lesion was continuous on the alveolar ridge. To reduce intra‑operative hemorrhage transfixion suture was passed around the vessel on the alveolar ridge. Then the lesion was excised from the base of peduncle with a scalpel. Histopathologically, the diagnosis of a congenital granular cell lesion of the jaw was given. Follow up of 3 months shows no signs of recurrence. CGCE may interfere with feeding, requiring a conservative excision as soon as the child is fit to undergo surgery. Tendency for recurrence and malignant transformation has not been documented.

Key Words: Congenital epulis, congenital granular cell lesion, epulis