International Journal of Clinical & Medical Images

Epulis literally means “of the gums” and is a nonspecific term used for tumors and tumor like masses of the gingival depending upon histopathological classification [Anneroth and Sigurdson, 1983] Epulis are divided into 3 types i.e. fibromatous, ossifying and acanthomatous. Etiology of Epulis is multifactorial like irritative factors (poor oral hygiene, chronic gingivitis, periodontal diseases) and hormonal changes. Fibrous Epulis most commonly occurs at the anterior gingival region. It may be pinkish in color, sessile or pedunculated, fixed but elastic in consistency, covered by apparently health mucous tissue unless the surface has been injured or ulcerated. Areas of fibrous Epulis can resemble fibrous dysplasia or ossifying fibroma but the distinction from such bone lesions is readily made by the clinically peripheral location of the fibrous Epulis which does not arise from bone. Histopathologically the lesion consists of hyperplastic connective tissue, can be ulcerated and covered by stratified squamous epithelium. The treatment aim is to remove the etiological factors and surgical excision of the lesion. The picture gives clinical features of a 2 year 6 months old female child who had fibrous Epulis between the lower anterior teeth which was surgically removed.