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Updated: Oct 22, 2025

Author Spotlight: Anterior HR-OCT as a Non-Invasive Tool for Characterizing Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia
Published on: August 9, 2024
Focal Epithelial Hyperplasia
Simone Kloch Bendtsen1, Kathrine Kronberg Jakobsen1, Amanda-Louise Fenger Carlander1
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery & Audiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Inge Lehmanns Vej 7, 2100 Copenhagen E, Denmark.
Focal epithelial hyperplasia (FEH), a benign oral condition linked to human papillomavirus (HPV), is increasingly reported in Europe. This review highlights new findings on HPV genotypes, including a rare HPV90 infection.
Area of Science:
- Oral Pathology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Focal epithelial hyperplasia (FEH), also known as Heck's disease, is a rare oral condition caused by specific human papillomavirus (HPV) types.
- FEH presents as asymptomatic, soft, papular lesions, but can necessitate treatment if growth or location becomes problematic.
Discussion:
- Diagnosis relies on clinical presentation and histopathology, with HPV genotyping via PCR or DNA sequencing.
- FEH traditionally affects indigenous populations and family clusters, but European cases are rising.
- This review examines HPV genotypes, superinfection, vaccination, transmission, diagnosis, distribution, comorbidities, and treatments for FEH.
Key Insights:
- The review includes recent case reports, emphasizing an unusual FEH case associated with the low-risk HPV90 genotype.
- Increasing incidence in Europe suggests changing epidemiological patterns.
- Understanding transmission and risk factors is crucial for management.
Outlook:
- Further research into HPV90's role in FEH is warranted.
- Monitoring geographical and ethnic distribution will aid in understanding disease spread.
- Public health strategies may need to adapt to the evolving epidemiology of FEH.
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