A Rare Case of Congenital Granular Cell Tumor of the Mandibular Ridge in a Neonate

Abstract

Congenital granular cell tumor (CGCT) is a rare, benign lesion that typically arises on the alveolar ridge of neonates. We report the case of a full-term, 2-day-old female infant who presented with a large, 6 cm pedunculated mass originating from the midline of the mandibular gingiva. The mass was not detected on prenatal imaging and caused significant feeding difficulties. Surgical excision under general anesthesia was performed on the second day of life. Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of CGCT, showing characteristic granular eosinophilic cytoplasm without mitotic activity or nuclear atypia. The infant recovered uneventfully, resumed breastfeeding within 12 hours, and was discharged on postoperative day three. Serial follow-ups at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 12 months and 24 months demonstrated excellent healing with no evidence of recurrence or complications. No abnormalities were observed in early dentoalveolar development, although continued monitoring is advised. This case emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and timely surgical intervention in symptomatic CGCTs, which generally carry an excellent prognosis and a low likelihood of recurrence.