What should you know about causes of pyogenic granuloma?

This growth, also called a lobular capillary haemangioma, often looks like a moist red or purple bump. It can form where skin has been rubbed, scratched or injured, and it may occur around a nail, on the face, limbs or inside the mouth. Pregnancy and other hormonal shifts can be associated with its development. Despite the name, it is not caused by pus and is not necessarily an infection. A clinician may still need to distinguish it from other bleeding or pigmented lesions.

Protect the bump from friction and cover it with a clean dressing if it catches on clothing. Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze if it bleeds; do not pick, cut or tie it off at home. Arrange a skin examination, particularly if it is growing quickly, repeatedly bleeding or has an uncertain appearance. Removal may be discussed, including Curettage And Cautery, with the choice guided by its site and size.

Seek prompt assessment for bleeding that does not settle with sustained gentle pressure, a painful infected-looking area, rapid change, or a growth near the eye. Urgent help is appropriate if bleeding makes you faint, weak or short of breath.

Ask whether the appearance is typical, whether a sample is needed, what may have triggered it, how scarring will be managed, and how to care for the site after treatment.