Epidermoid Cysts in Infants: Symptoms and Nutritional Needs

The baby's lower gum - epidermoid inclusion cyst?

Hello Doctor: My baby is 10 months and 21 days old, and she is a girl.
I have a few questions:
1.
The baby's lower gums have developed small white pearl-like round spots, which were diagnosed as epidermoid inclusion cysts on April 9.
Will this condition resolve on its own? Additionally, does this condition affect the baby's appetite?
2.
The baby's skin appears to be yellowish.
The outpatient physician suggested a possible iron deficiency.
Since starting solid foods at 5 months, I have included spinach and beef in every meal, and I only introduce carrots or pumpkin every couple of weeks to avoid pigment deposition.
Could you please provide reference values for the daily iron requirement for a baby who is 10 months and 21 days old? Thank you for your guidance.

Niu Niu's Mama, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/04/10

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Hello,
1.
The baby's lower gums have developed small white pearl-like round spots, which I suspect are Epstein's pearls.
This condition occurs in 65-85% of newborns and does not require treatment as it will resolve naturally.
This condition does not affect the baby's appetite.
2.
The baby's skin appears slightly yellow, which I suspect may be due to the consumption of carrots or pumpkin causing pigment deposition.
Additionally, for a baby who is 10 months and 21 days old, the recommended daily iron intake is approximately 10 mg/day (according to Nelson’s Textbook of Pediatrics, for ages 6-12 months, the recommendation is 10 mg/day, equivalent to 1 mg/kg/day).
Wishing you health and happiness!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Pei Ren-Sheng,
Chief of Pediatrics, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health

Reply Date: 2011/04/10

More Info

Epidermoid cysts, also known as epidermal inclusion cysts, are benign growths that can occur in infants and children. They are typically small, round, and filled with a thick, yellowish substance called keratin. In your case, your 10-month-old daughter has been diagnosed with an epidermoid cyst on her lower gums. Here’s a detailed response to your questions regarding this condition and your baby's nutritional needs.

1. Will the epidermoid cyst heal on its own?
Epidermoid cysts are generally harmless and often do not require treatment unless they become infected or cause discomfort. In many cases, these cysts can resolve on their own over time, especially in infants and young children. However, it is essential to monitor the cyst for any changes in size, color, or if it becomes painful. If the cyst does not resolve or if you notice any concerning symptoms, it is advisable to consult your pediatrician for further evaluation. As for its impact on your baby's appetite, epidermoid cysts typically do not affect eating or swallowing unless they are located in a sensitive area or become inflamed. If your daughter seems to be eating well and gaining weight appropriately, it is likely that the cyst is not affecting her appetite.

2. Nutritional Needs and Iron Deficiency
Regarding your concern about your baby's skin appearing yellow and the suspicion of iron deficiency, it’s important to ensure that she is receiving adequate iron in her diet. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants aged 7 to 12 months should receive about 11 mg of iron per day. Iron is crucial for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood, and a deficiency can lead to anemia, which may manifest as pale skin or jaundice-like symptoms.

You mentioned that you have been incorporating spinach and beef into her diet, which are excellent sources of iron. However, it’s important to note that the iron from plant sources (non-heme iron) is not absorbed as efficiently as the iron from animal sources (heme iron). To enhance the absorption of non-heme iron, consider pairing these foods with vitamin C-rich foods, such as fruits (like oranges or strawberries) or vegetables (like bell peppers or broccoli). This combination can significantly improve iron absorption.

If your daughter is showing signs of iron deficiency, such as fatigue, irritability, or pale skin, it may be beneficial to discuss with your pediatrician the possibility of iron supplementation. They may recommend a blood test to confirm iron levels and determine the best course of action.

In summary, while epidermoid cysts in infants often resolve on their own and typically do not affect appetite, it is essential to monitor them for any changes. Regarding nutritional needs, ensure your baby is receiving adequate iron through a balanced diet, and consult your pediatrician if you have concerns about her iron levels or overall health. Regular check-ups will help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly.

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