Oral Epstein-Barr virus-positive mucocutaneous ulcer: gingival presentation of a benign lymphoproliferative lesion

Abstract

Epstein–Barr virus-positive mucocutaneous ulcer (EBVMCU) is a benign lymphoproliferative lesion related to iatrogenic or age-related immunosuppression in patients with prior Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection. Although the clinical presentation may resemble malignant disease, the course of EBVMCU is indolent, and regression is expected when immunosuppression is reduced. We present a case of EBVMCU in the gingiva of a 59-year-old male patient with long-standing pemphigus vulgaris. The initial presentation was suspicious for oral cavity cancer, which was ruled out by biopsy. After reduction of immunosuppression, the ulceration regressed and an area of exposed necrotic bone remained. Complete healing was achieved after sequestrectomy and primary closure with a local gingival flap.