When is curettage and cautery recommended for pyogenic granuloma?

A pyogenic granuloma is a rapidly growing red skin lump made up of delicate blood vessels. It can bleed after minor contact and may form a crust. Curettage removes the visible tissue, while cautery treats the base and helps control bleeding. The clinician may consider the lump's position, depth, size, bleeding history and whether a sample should be examined. A red bleeding bump can have other causes, so confirmation matters before a procedure.

Book a dermatology assessment if a red lump appeared quickly, bleeds easily or keeps returning after being knocked. Do not cut it off or apply household chemicals. If it bleeds, hold clean, steady pressure over the area and seek help if bleeding does not settle. Before removal, tell the clinician about medicines or conditions that affect bleeding, wound healing or immune function.

Seek prompt care for heavy or persistent bleeding, a rapidly enlarging lump, marked pain, spreading redness or a lesion near the eye. After treatment, contact the clinic if bleeding restarts repeatedly, pus develops, pain worsens or the wound is not healing as expected. A lump that returns should be reassessed rather than repeatedly treated at home.

Ask whether the appearance is typical of pyogenic granuloma, whether tissue will be sent for examination, and how recurrence will be monitored. Discuss dressing changes, pressure if bleeding recurs, scar care and the signs that warrant an earlier review.