P. Treadwell et al. (eds.)Atlas of Adolescent Dermatologyhttps://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-58634-8_26

26. Pyogenic Granuloma

Patricia Treadwell¹

(1)

Department of Dermatology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA

Patricia Treadwell

Email: ptreadwe@iupui.edu

Keywords

Pyogenic granulomaVascularTopical beta blocker

26.1 Introduction

The term “pyogenic granuloma” is unfortunately somewhat of a misnomer. The lesion is not typically pyogenic nor is it a granuloma. The lesion has also been labeled a lobular capillary hemangioma – an acquired vascular lesion.

26.2 Epidemiology

Pyogenic granulomas are most often noted in childhood and adolescence. The etiology is theorized to be neovascularization. This can occur following trauma or can also be seen arising within a nevus flammeus [1].

26.3 Clinical Findings

The lesion usually is a reddish to violaceous lobulated nodule (Fig. 26.1). The surface may become eroded. In some cases, it can become pedunculated (Fig. 26.2). The history given by the patient and/or caregivers is that it often spontaneously bleeds. They are most often located on the fingers, face, and oral mucosa.

../images/446896_1_En_26_Chapter/446896_1_En_26_Fig1_HTML.jpg — Fig. 26.1
Lobulated pyogenic granuloma

../images/446896_1_En_26_Chapter/446896_1_En_26_Fig2_HTML.jpg — Fig. 26.2
Pedunculated pyogenic granuloma

26.4 Laboratory

Histopathology shows a proliferation of capillaries and fibroplasia.

26.5 Treatment

Surgical excision with curettage and/or cautery was previously considered the best option; however, recently, topical beta blockers have been noted to be useful [2].

26.6 Prognosis

Incomplete excision may result in recurrence.