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| Definition: |
A whitish-yellow accumulation of keratin containing epithelial cells on the gums and hard palate of a newborn baby.
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| Alternative Names: |
Gingival cysts of the newborn
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| Causes, incidence, and risk factors: |
Epstein pearls occur only in the newborn and are very common, seen in approximately 80% of newborns. On the gums, they sometimes resemble emerging teeth. The condition is harmless although it sometimes worries new mothers.
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| Symptoms: |
- whitish-yellow nodules appearing on the gums or the roof of the mouth in a newborn
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| Signs and tests: |
Examination of the infant confirms that these are Epstein pearls and not teeth present at birth (natal teeth).
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| Treatment: |
No treatment is necessary.
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| Expectations (prognosis): |
Epstein pearls disappear within 1 to 2 weeks of birth.
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| Complications: |
There are often no complications.
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| Calling your health care provider: |
(If you are concerned about Epstein pearls in your infant, discuss it with your health care provider during a routine well-baby examination.)
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Review Date: 12/5/2001
Reviewed By: Jonathan Fanaroff, M.D., Department of Pediatrics, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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