What is a Pyogenic Granuloma?
A Pyogenic Granuloma (PG) is a common, benign growth that appears on the skin or mucous membranes, typically in the form of a small, red, or purple bump. Despite its name, a pyogenic granuloma is not an infection but rather a vascular lesion, meaning it involves the abnormal growth of blood vessels. These growths often develop rapidly and can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. While not cancerous, pyogenic granulomas can be bothersome due to their appearance, tendency to bleed, and location.
Common Locations for Pyogenic Granulomas
Pyogenic granulomas most commonly develop on the following areas of the body:
- Hands
- Face
- Arms
- Legs
- Mucous membranes (such as in the mouth)
They can also appear in areas of previous trauma or injury. While anyone can develop pyogenic granulomas, they are more commonly seen in children, pregnant women, and people with a history of trauma to the skin.
Symptoms of Pyogenic Granulomas
The primary symptoms of pyogenic granulomas include:
- A red, raised, or purple bump on the skin
- A smooth, shiny surface
- Bleeding or oozing, especially after minor trauma
- Rapid growth over a short period
What Causes Pyogenic Granulomas?
The exact cause of pyogenic granulomas remains unclear, but several factors can increase the risk of developing them:
- Trauma or Injury: Often developing in areas that have been cut, scraped, or irritated.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the likelihood of developing pyogenic granulomas, especially on the hands and face.
- Medications: Certain medications, particularly those that suppress the immune system or affect blood vessel formation, can increase the risk.
- Underlying Health Conditions: Individuals with specific health conditions may be more prone to developing these lesions.
Treatment Options at Aspen Dermatology
At Aspen Dermatology, we understand the concern that comes with a pyogenic granuloma and offer a variety of effective treatment options tailored to each individual’s needs:
- Excision – Surgical removal is a common treatment for pyogenic granulomas. This can be done in the office under local anesthesia.
- Laser Therapy – A laser treatment can be used to target the blood vessels within the granuloma and cause it to shrink or disappear, often with minimal scarring.
- Cauterization – This procedure involves using a heated instrument to burn off the granuloma, which helps prevent recurrence.
- Topical Treatments – In some cases, topical treatments may be used to help shrink the growth.
- Cryotherapy – Cryotherapy involves freezing the granuloma with liquid nitrogen, which can effectively treat smaller lesions.
Your dermatologist at Aspen Dermatology will work with you to determine the most appropriate treatment based on the location, size, and number of pyogenic granulomas.
When to See a Dermatologist
If you notice a growth on your skin that bleeds easily or grows rapidly, it’s important to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced dermatologists. Pyogenic granulomas are typically benign, but an accurate diagnosis is essential to rule out other conditions.
