Pyogenic granulomas are small, raised, red bumps on the skin. The bumps have a smooth surface and may be moist. They bleed easily because of the high number of blood vessels at the site.
Alternative Names
Lobular capillary hemangioma
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The exact cause of pyogenic granulomas is unknown. They often appear following an injury on the hands, arms, or face.
Pyogenic granulomas are common in children.
Symptoms
Small red vascular lump that bleeds easily
Often found at site of recent injury
Usually seen on hands, arms, and face, but may develop in the mouth (most often in pregnant women)
Signs and tests
Your health care provider will do a physical exam to diagnose this condition. You may also need a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Small pyogenic granulomas may go away suddenly. Larger bumps are treated with surgery, electrocautery, freezing, or lasers.
Expectations (prognosis)
Most pyogenic granulomas can be removed. A scar may remain after treatment. There is a high chance that the problem will come back if the whole granuloma is not destroyed during treatment.
Complications
Bleeding from the granuloma
Return of the condition after treatment
Calling your health care provider
Call your health care provider if you have a skin bump that bleeds easily or that changes appearance.
North PE, Kincannon J. In: Bolognia JL, Jorizzo JL, Schaffer JV, et al, eds.Dermatology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2012:chap 114.
Review Date:
11/20/2012
Reviewed By:
Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc., Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, David R. Eltz, Stephanie Slon, and Nissi Wang.
