Congenital epulide in a neonate, a rare tumor: case report

Abstract

Objective: report the case of a neonatal patient who presented with a tumoral mass on the maxillary gingival ridge, observed after birth. Case report: Female newborn patient, delivered by normal birth, weighing 3.460 kg, with no complications during delivery. During an oral examination performed by the medical team, a swelling was observed on the maxillary alveolar ridge, leading to the decision to transfer her to the neonatal ICU for observation and insertion of an oral tube. During the dental evaluation, a smooth, shiny nodule with a pinkish/purplish color, approximately 2.4 cm along its long axis, was observed. It was pedunculated and located on the anterior ridge of the left maxilla. The proposed treatment was surgical excision under local anesthesia, performed 36 hours after birth without complications, and the clinical hypothesis of congenital epulis was confirmed by histopathological examination. The patient has been under follow-up for 4 months, showing excellent ridge appearance. Conclusion: The inclusion of a dental surgeon in the multidisciplinary team in a hospital setting is crucial, as early diagnosis and prompt intervention were decisive for successful treatment and prevention of potential complications.