The major epulides: clinicopathological correlations.

The word "epulis" is a clinical term used to describe a localized growth on the gingiva. Histologic examination of epulides indicates that the vast majority are focal fibrous hyperplasias, peripheral ossifying fibromas, pyogenic granulomas or peripheral giant cell granulomas. Data, derived from a 12-year retrospective study of gingival lesions submitted to the Oral Pathology Diagnostic Service at The University of Western Ontario, are the subject of this paper. The results indicate that the major epulides are common oral lesions with which dentists should be thoroughly familiar. The histologic features and clinical relevance of these lesions are examined and analyzed and their biological and clinical behavior are discussed.