[Multifocal epithelial hyperplasia: a familial case]

Area of Science:

• Oral Medicine
• Dermatology
• Virology

Background:

• Multifocal epithelial hyperplasia (MEH), also known as Heck disease, is a rare oral mucosal condition.
• It is primarily caused by specific strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly types 13 and 32.
• MEH typically affects children aged 3-18 and shows higher prevalence in women and certain ethnic groups.

Observation:

• A case study involving a 14-year-old Ecuadorian male presenting with papulous lesions on his oral mucosa since age 4.
• The patient's 32-year-old mother exhibited identical oral lesions.
• This presentation highlights a familial occurrence of MEH in an immigrant population.

Findings:

• The study documents a rare instance of Multifocal Epithelial Hyperplasia in an Ecuadorian family residing in Spain.
• The lesions were characteristic of MEH: benign, asymptomatic, epithelial proliferations appearing as multiple papules.
• The familial pattern suggests a potential genetic predisposition or shared environmental exposure in addition to HPV infection.

Implications:

• Given Spain's increasing immigrant population, healthcare providers should be aware of rare conditions like MEH.
• Early recognition and diagnosis of MEH are important for appropriate management, even if the condition is benign.
• This case underscores the importance of considering ethnic background and family history in diagnosing oral mucosal diseases.