PYOGENIC GRANULOMA

A Pyogenic Granuloma (PG) is a vascular growth common in both children and pregnant women. It seems to represent a reactive and hyperplastic condition, rather than a neoplasm. It usually develops at the site of skin injury and frequently bleeds.

• The name is a misnomer. The lesion is not infectious and histopathologic study does not show a granuloma.
• The PG is a reactive vascular lesion.
• HPV DNA was detected in 44.4% (eight of 18) of the samples in one study, suggesting a potential link [Int J Dermatol. 2015 Oct 22].
• Predisposing factors: pregnancy, isotretinoin, port wine stains and BRAF inhibitors.

The sudden appearance of a vascular, friable papule that bleeds easily on the finger, palm, sole, head, or neck is characteristic of a pyogenic granuloma. It is more common in pregnancy and in those patients on isotretinoin, especially in the periungual areas. Topical retinoid use has also induced PG. It may rarely occur after cryosurgery. It may occur in the periungual area, especially in the setting of retinoid or indinavir administration. It is GLUT-1 negative. The "bandage sign" is the frequent observation of patients presenting with bandages covering the lesion, as they bleed easily and are often covered to prevent trauma and bleeding.

RegionalDerm

Homepage | Who is Dr. White? | Privacy Policy | FAQs | Use of Images | Contact Dr. White