GRANULOMA, PYOGENIC |
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DESCRIPTIONPyogenic granuloma refers to skin lesions composed of small blood vessels. These are not contagious or cancerous. The skin anywhere on the body, but most commonly on the face and shoulder, is involved. Pyogenic granuloma can affect children of both sexes (ages 5-15) and women during pregnancy.
Appropriate health care includes:
Physician's monitoring of general condition and medications.
Surgery or cryotherapy (See Glossary) to remove papules.
Self-care after surgery.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Papules (small raised bumps on the child's skin) with the following characteristics:
Papules appear first as pinhead-sized but grow rapidly within weeks to full size (2mm to 20mm).
Papules bleed easily when injured.
Papules don't hurt or itch.
CAUSES
Unknown. Pyogenic refers to an infectious process, but these lesions are misnamed. Because they frequently appear in late childhood or pregnancy, hormonal changes may be a factor in their development.
RISK FACTORS
Pregnancy.
PREVENTING COMPLICATIONS OR RECURRENCECannot be prevented at present.
OTHER
Because pyogenic granuloma resembles melanoma (skin cancer), medical diagnosis is important for your child.
BASIC INFORMATION
MEDICAL TESTS
Your own observation of symptoms.
Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
Biopsy (See Glossary).
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONSNone expected.
PROBABLE OUTCOME
Spontaneous recovery, usually within 2 to 6 months. Recurrence is common.
TREATMENT
HOME CAREAfter your child's surgery:
Apply rubbing alcohol to the scab twice a day.
Apply an adhesive bandage to the scab during the day. Leave it uncovered at night.
Wash the wound as usual. Dry gently and completely after the child bathes or swims.
MEDICATION
For minor pain, use non-prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen or aspirin.
If the child's scab cracks or oozes, apply a non-prescription antibiotic ointment several times a day.
See Medications section for information regarding medicines your doctor may prescribe.
ACTIVITY
No restrictions.
DIET & FLUIDS
No special diet.
OK TO GO TO SCHOOL?Yes. Not contagious to others.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF
Your child has symptoms of pyogenic granuloma.
The child's wound bleeds after surgery, and bleeding cannot be stopped by applying pressure for 10 minutes.
The child's wound shows signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, or increased tenderness.
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