Epstein pearls - Overview
Alternative Names
Gingival cysts of the newborn
Definition of Epstein pearls:
Epstein pearls are whitish-yellow cysts that form on the gums and roof of the mouth in a newborn baby.
See also: Milia
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Epstein pearls occur only in the newborn and are very common, seen in approximately 80% of newborns. The pearls are protein-filled cysts. On the gums, they sometimes resemble emerging teeth. The condition is harmless although it sometimes worries new mothers.
- Reviewed last on: 7/26/2007
- Daniel Rauch, M.D., FAAP., Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
References
Stephan M. Common newborn dermatologic conditions. Clin Fam Pract. 2003 Sep; 5(3); 535.
Behrman RE. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 17th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004.
