Epulis K06.80

Generic term for aetiologically non-uniform, tumour-like (pseudotumour), non-specific, inflammatory and irritant granulation or resorption tumours which occur solitary or multiple times in the area of the gingiva or alveolar mucosa.

The following classification is possible:

• Epulis gravidarum
• Giant cell pulis (syn: peripheral giant cell granuloma)
• Epulis fibrosa.

Mostly unspecific (inflammation-like) granulation tumour. It contains many giant cells of the osteoclast type and is therefore also called Epulis gigantocelullaris.

The giant cell pulposus of the gums behaves more like a real tumour. It does not regress spontaneously and tends to recur.

Pseudotumors with a similar structure are found on the tendon sheaths and on the inner skin of the joints. They are referred to here as "giant cell-containing tendon sheath tumor or villonodular synovialtitis".

1. Grundmann (2018) Dignity of tumors. Short textbook pathology p. 205 Elsevier Munich

2. Truschnegg A et al.(2016) Nonsurgical treatment of an epulis by photodynamic therapy. Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther 14:1-3.