Pediatrics Virtual Tour

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.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Epstein pearls occur only in the newborn and are very common. They are seen in approximately 80% of newborns.

The pearls are protein-filled cysts. The condition is harmless, although it sometimes worries new mothers.

Reviewed last on: 7/15/2008
Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Lowe MC Jr, Woolridge DP. The normal newborn exam, or is it? Emerg Med Clin North Am. 2007;25:921-946.

Morelli JG. Disorders of the Mucous Membranes. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF. Kliegman: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 663.

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