Plasma Cell Gingivitis of Unusual Origin. A Case Report

Plasma cell gingivitis is a rare benign condition of the gingiva. It is marked by a dense infiltrate of normal plasma cells separated into aggregates by strands of collagen. It is a hypersensitivity reaction to some antigen, often flavorings or spices. The importance of this lesion is that it may cause severe gingival inflammation, discomfort, and bleeding and may mimic more serious conditions. Plaque control and conventional periodontal therapy alone will not cure this disease. The etiologic agent must be identified and the substance eliminated from use. This report outlines a case of plasma cell gingivitis which may have been brought on by the use of red peppers in cooking. J Periodontol 1991; 62:390–393.