Epstein pearls
Gingival cysts of the newbornEpstein pearls are whitish-yellow cysts. These form on the gums and roof of the mouth in a newborn baby.
Milia are a similar type of skin problem in babies.
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Causes
Epstein pearls occur only in newborns and are very common. They are seen in about 4 out of 5 newborns.
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Symptoms
The symptoms are whitish-yellow nodules that appear on the gums or the roof of the mouth. They sometimes look like emerging teeth.
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Exams and Tests
An exam confirms that these are cysts and not natal teeth.
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Treatment
No treatment is necessary. The condition is harmless.
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Outlook (Prognosis)
Epstein pearls disappear within 1 to 2 weeks of birth.
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When to Contact a Medical Professional
If you are concerned about Epstein pearls in your infant, talk to your health care provider during a routine well-baby checkup.
References
Khorsand K, Sidbury R. Common newborn dermatoses. In: Gleason CA, Juul SE, eds. Avery's Diseases of the Newborn. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 106.
Kim WE. Disorders of the mucous membranes. In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, Shah SS, Tasker RC, Wilson KM, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 21st ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 684.
Turner EG, Dean JA. Eruption of the teeth: local, systemic, and congenital factors that influence the process. In: Dean JA, ed. McDonald and Avery’s Dentistry for the Child and Adolescent. 11th ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2022:chap 20.