How Do I Know if This Red Patch is a Pyogenic Granuloma?

Red patches or bumps can come and go on the skin for various reasons. Passing skin irritations, trauma, medications or reactions to stimuli can all leave a mark. These patches or bumps generally go away on their own and require no concern or treatment. A Pyrogenic Granuloma is a benign growth that can develop anywhere on the body, including the eye. Most are not troublesome; however, some can be cosmetically unattractive while others may bleed easily.

Symptoms of a Pyogenic Granuloma

Pyogenic Granulomas, also called lobular capillaries or eruptive hemangiomas, present as a raised, red bump that can be rough or smooth. Rough ones typically bleed easily with little irritation, or sometimes none at all. They are possibly triggered by:

• Certain medications
• Pregnancy (due to hormonal fluctuations)
• Trauma or injury to the skin
• Bug bites

Most Pyogenic Granulomas form and grow over a period of about two weeks. In this time, they generally grow to about two centimeters across at the largest. However, in come cases, they can become much larger.

Those without a propensity to bleed pose no danger and are not linked to cancer or other conditions. Unless they pose difficulties when rubbed by clothing or jewelry, or present cosmetic concerns, most medical specialists recommend leaving them alone.

Treatments for Pyogenic Granuloma

Problematic Pyogenic Granulomas that bleed or present cosmetic concerns can be removed. A specialist at The Vascular Birthmark Institute can remove them with chemical treatments that often include phenol, silver nitrate or Trichloroacetic acid (TCA). Most often, more than one chemical treatment will be needed to completely eliminate the growth, depending on its size, location and other factors.

Laser surgery for removal is not typically recommended, as Pyogenic Granulomas do not respond well to laser treatment and frequently grow back.

Cryotherapy using extreme cold is also a removal method that has great success. Other methods include scraping with a curette and cauterization to prevent regrowth. Both these methods are done in-office using local or topical anesthetic for the patient’s comfort.

When these treatment methods are not recommended or if you Pyogenic Granuloma returns, surgical removal is warranted. Surgical excision involves cutting into the skin and removing both the growth and a small area of tissue around it, then stitching the wound closed. This is performed under local anesthesia and takes about half an hour to complete.

 The skilled and talented team at The Vascular Birthmark Institute in New York can diagnose your Pyogenic Granuloma and recommend the best treatment option for you. Each patient is treated individually and receives a tailored treatment plan to best serve their needs. We are located inside the Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital on East 64^th Street in New York City.

Contact our team today to schedule a consultation and exam with one of our vascular birthmark specialists. We also perform telehealth clinical consultations. You may request this when you call or message us online for your appointment.