Autofluorescent granular cells in oral mucosal hyperplasias

Four hyperplastic lesions of the hard palate are described. They were characterized by the presence of an atrophic surface epithelium, an oedematous matrix and the presence of large numbers of autofluorescent granular cells. In addition there were numerous mast cells. Histochemical and electronmicroscopical studies suggest that the granules are composed of lipofuscin. The pathogenesis of these lesions is discussed.