MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Epstein pearls

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Epstein pearls

Contents of this page:
Alternative Names Definition Causes Symptoms Exams and Tests	Treatment Outlook (Prognosis) Possible Complications When to Contact a Medical Professional References

Alternative Names

Gingival cysts of the newborn

Definition Return to top

Epstein pearls are whitish-yellow cysts that form on the gums and roof of the mouth in a newborn baby.

See also: Milia

Causes Return to top

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.

Symptoms Return to top

Whitish-yellow nodules appear on the gums or the roof of the mouth in a newborn.

Exams and Tests Return to top

Examination of the infant confirms that these are Epstein pearls and not teeth present at birth (natal teeth).

Treatment Return to top

No treatment is necessary.

Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top

Epstein pearls disappear within 1 to 2 weeks of birth.

Possible Complications Return to top

There are often no complications.

When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top

If you are concerned about Epstein pearls in your infant, discuss it with your health care provider during a routine well-baby examination.

References Return to top

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.

Update Date: 7/26/2007

Updated by: Daniel Rauch, M.D., FAAP., Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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