Symptom 3: Presence at Birth or Shortly After
The early bird catches the worm, and Epstein’s Pearls certainly follow this mantra. They make their grand entrance either at birth or within the baby’s first few weeks. This timely appearance is noteworthy because it can aid in distinguishing Epstein’s Pearls from other potential oral occurrences that might manifest later in the infant’s life.
When parents notice these cysts, they often wonder if they’ve been there since birth or if they’ve developed over time. The timeline of their appearance can provide clarity. While some parents may spot them immediately after delivery, others might discover them during the baby’s initial weeks. These early days are filled with numerous check-ups and countless hours spent observing and admiring the baby, making the detection of these cysts quite likely.
Epstein’s Pearls’ early appearance is a testament to their developmental nature. They aren’t a response to external factors or a symptom of an underlying condition that’s developed over time. Instead, they’re a result of the natural developmental processes that occur as the baby grows in the womb.
One might wonder, “Why so early?” The formation of these cysts is a result of trapped epithelial cells during the baby’s development. As the oral cavity and other parts of the mouth form, these cells can become trapped and eventually lead to the formation of Epstein’s Pearls. (3)
