Pyogenic Granuloma

Also known as: granuloma telangiectaticum

What is pyogenic granuloma?

Pyogenic granuloma is a relatively common skin growth that presents as a shiny red mass. It is sometimes called ‘granuloma telangiectaticum’.The surface has a raspberry-like or raw minced meat appearance.

Although they are benign (non-cancerous), pyogenic granulomas can cause problems of discomfort and profuse bleeding. Pyogenic granuloma may be secondary to trauma, infection (staphylococcus auerus common) hormonal changes (occurs in 5% of pregnancies) drug induced (acitretin isotretinion or protease inhibitors).

What are the signs and symptoms of pyogenic granuloma?

Lesions usually first appear as a small pinhead-sized red, brownish-red, or blue-black spot that grows rapidly over a few days to weeks to anywhere between 2mm and 2cm in diameter. They bled and can ulcerate, forming crusted sores. They mostly appear on the head, neck, upper trunk, hands, and feet.

What are the treatment options for pyogenic granuloma?

They usually go away after a pregnancy and some treatment options are:

• Curettage/cauterization (lesion is scrapped with a curette and then cauterized to reduce the blood vessels and chances of regrowth)
• Pulsed dye laser
• Cryosurgery (liquid nitrogen)