CONGENITAL GRANULAR CELL EPULIS IN ANTERIOR REGION OF THE MANDIBLE: A RARE CASE

Abstract

Congenital granular cell epulis (CGCE) is a rare benign tumor of unknown etiology, with a predilection for the maxilla. It is characterized by the proliferation of granular cells, exhibiting negative immunohistochemical expression for S-100 protein. An 8-day-old dark-skinned female newborn presented with a nodular lesion located in the anterior region of the mandible. It measured 1.3 × 1.0 × 0.7 cm and had a pedunculated base. It was covered by eroded mucosa and fibrous on palpation. After surgical excision, a diagnosis of congenital granular cell epulis was rendered, based on anatomopathologic and immunohistochemical findings (positive for vimentin and specific neuron enolase and negative for S-100, smooth muscle actin, and desmin). After 18 months of follow-up, there are no signs of recurrence. The recognition of this lesion is important because of functional limitations, such as difficulty in breastfeeding.