A Pyogenic Granuloma is a reactive overgrowth of capillary blood vessels. It is a benign lesion, but can cause discomfort and frequent, easy bleeding. Pyogenic Granulomas are relatively common, occurring mostly in children and young adults and in females more often than males.
The cause of Pyogenic Granulomas are not fully understood, but the following factors are thought to be associated with their development;
Pyogenic Granulomas appear as a single, shiny, red nodule of up to 1cm, often described as ""raspberry-like". This nodule will have grown rapidly from a painless, small, discoloured spot. Pyogenic Granulomas are most commonly located on the fingers and hands.
The diagnosis of a Pyogenic Granuloma is clinical, but can be confirmed by biopsy and histological examination. This is required to rule out the more sinister differential diagnosis of an Amelanotic Melanoma.
Pyogenic Granulomas can be managed by;