Overview
Median nodule of the upper lip is a rare congenital condition, meaning it is present from birth. It appears as a small lump or bump located in the center of the upper lip. This nodule forms during early fetal development when the tissues of the face are coming together. In most cases, the nodule is a harmless, firm, skin-colored or slightly raised bump that does not cause pain. It is sometimes called a 'midline lip nodule' or 'congenital median nodule of the upper lip.' The condition is classified under congenital malformations of the face and neck. It is generally considered a minor structural difference rather than a serious medical problem. The nodule does not typically affect eating, speaking, or breathing in most cases, though its size and exact location can vary from person to person. Treatment is usually straightforward. If the nodule causes cosmetic concern or any functional issue, a simple surgical removal by a plastic surgeon or oral and maxillofacial surgeon is the standard approach. The outlook after removal is excellent, and recurrence is rare. Many individuals choose to have it removed for cosmetic reasons, while others may live with it without any intervention needed.
Key symptoms:
Small firm bump or lump in the center of the upper lipBump present from birthSkin-colored or slightly pink noduleUsually painlessMay be noticed during newborn examinationPossible mild cosmetic concern as the child grows
Sporadic
Usually appears on its own, not inherited from a parent
Neonatal
Begins at or shortly after birth (first 4 weeks)
Treatments
No FDA-approved treatments are currently listed for Median nodule of the upper lip.
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Specialists
View all specialists →No specialists are currently listed for Median nodule of the upper lip.
Treatment Centers
8 centersBaylor College of Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🏥 NORDStanford Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Stanford Medicine
📍 Stanford, CA
🔬 UDNNIH Clinical Center Undiagnosed Diseases Program ↗
National Institutes of Health
📍 Bethesda, MD
🔬 UDNUCLA UDN Clinical Site ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
🔬 UDNBaylor College of Medicine UDN Clinical Site ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🔬 UDNHarvard/MGH UDN Clinical Site ↗
Massachusetts General Hospital
📍 Boston, MA
🏥 NORDMayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine ↗
Mayo Clinic
📍 Rochester, MN
👤 Mayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine
🏥 NORDUCLA Rare Disease Day Program ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
Travel Grants
No travel grants are currently matched to Median nodule of the upper lip.
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Caregiver Resources
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Family & Caregiver Grants
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Social Security Disability
Learn how rare disease patients may qualify for SSDI/SSI benefits.
Questions for your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment
- Q1.Does my child need surgery, or is it safe to wait and watch?,Could this nodule be a sign of any other underlying condition?,What does the surgical removal procedure involve, and what is the recovery like?,Are there any risks of the nodule coming back after removal?,Should I see a geneticist to check if this is related to any genetic condition?,How will this affect my child's appearance as they grow older?,Are there any signs I should watch for that would mean we need to act sooner?
Common questions about Median nodule of the upper lip
What is Median nodule of the upper lip?
Median nodule of the upper lip is a rare congenital condition, meaning it is present from birth. It appears as a small lump or bump located in the center of the upper lip. This nodule forms during early fetal development when the tissues of the face are coming together. In most cases, the nodule is a harmless, firm, skin-colored or slightly raised bump that does not cause pain. It is sometimes called a 'midline lip nodule' or 'congenital median nodule of the upper lip.' The condition is classified under congenital malformations of the face and neck. It is generally considered a minor structur
How is Median nodule of the upper lip inherited?
Median nodule of the upper lip follows a sporadic inheritance pattern. Genetic counseling can help families understand recurrence risk and testing options.
At what age does Median nodule of the upper lip typically begin?
Typical onset of Median nodule of the upper lip is neonatal. Age of onset can vary across affected individuals.