Epstein-Barr Virus-Positive Mucocutaneous Ulcer Mimicking Peri-Implantitis in a Patient With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Abstract

Epstein-Barr virus-positive mucocutaneous ulcer (EBVMCU) is characterized by cutaneous and/or mucosal ulcers in patients receiving immunosuppressive medication or with age-related immunosenescence. Its microscopic appearance often leads to a diagnostic challenge, sometimes mimicking an overt lymphoma. A 47-year-old woman, with a previous diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus, was referred for evaluation of a gingival ulcer, present for about 2 months and located in the maxillary peri-implant mucosa around implants, resembling peri-implantitis. An incisional biopsy was performed, and the microscopic evaluation showed a polymorphic infiltrate with some Reed-Sternberg-like cells. Immunohistochemistry showed positive findings for CD20, CD30, CD45, PAX-5, MUM-1, LMP-1 and EBER1/2, establishing the diagnosis of EBVMCU. After 2 months, total regression of the lesion was noted without any intervention. We discuss the possible association between the EBVMCU and systemic lupus erythematosus; to our knowledge, this is the first report of an EBVMCU simulating peri-implantitis.