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Hyperplasia of gingival tissues may occur without inflammation in response to various drugs, particularly phenytoinSome Trade Names
DILANTIN
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, cyclosporineSome Trade Names
NEORAL
SANDIMMUNE
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, and nifedipineSome Trade Names
ADALAT
PROCARDIA
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or, less commonly, other Ca channel blockers. Hyperplasia is characterized by diffuse, relatively avascular smooth or nodular enlargement of the gingiva, which may almost cover some teeth. The hypertrophied tissue is often excised. If possible, substitutions are made for the offending drugs. Scrupulous oral hygiene may minimize recurrence.

Carcinoma can also originate in the gingiva and spread to regional lymph nodes.

Last full review/revision October 2008 by James T. Ubertalli, DMD

Content last modified October 2008