skip to main content

Fibrous Epulis — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyOral PathologyFibrous EpulisMFDS Part 1

An adult presents with a painless, firm, pink, sessile mass arising from the interdental gingiva adjacent to calculus and an overhanging restoration. Histology shows collagenised fibrous connective tissue covered by stratified squamous epithelium, with mild chronic inflammation. Which process most likely underlies this fibrous epulis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Reactive proliferation of gingival connective tissue following chronic local irritation

Explanation lettering: C = shown as A · D = shown as B · E = shown as C · B = shown as D · A = shown as E

A is correct. A fibrous epulis is a localised reactive hyperplastic lesion of gingival connective tissue, commonly associated with persistent local irritation such as calculus, plaque-retentive restoration margins or trauma. The firm pink appearance and collagenised connective tissue with mild chronic inflammation support a mature fibrous response. It is not a true epithelial neoplasm, excluding B, and viral epithelial proliferation would more typically produce a papillary or verrucous lesion, excluding C. Autoimmune periodontal disease causes inflammatory tissue destruction rather than a focal fibrous mass, excluding D. Hormonal influences can modify some reactive gingival lesions, particularly pregnancy-associated pyogenic granuloma, but fibrous epulis is neither confined to puberty nor primarily hormone-driven, excluding E.

Reference: Gu W, Li S, Hu S, et al. Epulis: A Narrative Review of Epidemiology, Clinical Features, Pathogenesis, and Management. Oral Health & Preventive Dentistry. 2025;23:507-524. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40899761/