Multifocal Epithelial Hyperplasia, a Rare Oral Infection in the Iranian Population: A Case Report

Abstract

Multifocal epithelial hyperplasia (MEH) or Heck’s disease is a rare, benign, non-common, self-limiting viral infection of the oral mucosa that is caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), especially subtype 13 or 32. The onset of the disease varies widely between different geographic regions and different races. A 45-year-old male patient was admitted to Department of Oral Medicine of Yazd Dental School for dental examination. Routine extra oral examination revealed numerous papules in the lips. The lesions were multiple, scattered papules that were interconnected in some areas and resembled an exophytic mass. Subsequently, the family history was positive and the clinical features conducted us to the diagnosis of the Focal Epithelial Hyperplasia. Since this disease is rare in the Iranian population and this case is the 19th case in Iran, timely diagnosis and prevention of its transmission had the great importance. Therefore, promotion of dentists' awareness towards diagnosis and appropriate referral to oral medicines specialists were recommended.

Keywords

• focal epithelial hyperplasia
• human papilloma virus
• heck’s disease
• oral
• hyperplasia