Congenital epulis in a female newborn

Abstract

Introduction: Congenital epulis, also known as Neumann’s tumor, is a benign soft-tissue lesion with an unclear cause. Congenital epulis manifests as a pink lump with a smooth surface in the mucosa of the maxillary or mandibular alveolar ridges. The lesion is more common in women and occurs more commonly in the maxillary alveolus than in the mandibular alveolus. Multiple theories have been proposed regarding the causes of congenital epulis; however, the etiology is still ambiguous. Case Report: A 1-day-old female neonate was delivered via normal spontaneous vaginal delivery and referred to our hospital as an oral mass for surgical evaluation and intervention. It was discovered on a detailed prenatal ultrasound. Postnatal brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed, the mass was characterized, laser excision was performed, and a histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis. The patient underwent postoperative follow-up and was normal. Conclusion: Congenital epulis is a rare, neonatal, congenital, and benign tumor. It requires removal by either surgical resection or laser excision owing to problems in feeding and respiration. Clinicians should always perform routine oral examinations for all newborns for the early diagnosis of this gingival tumor before it interferes with oral function.