Pyogenic Granulomas

Pyogenic granulomas are painless, localized, spherical (ball-shaped) lesions that are most common on the gums, but they can also occur on the lips, tongue, the inside of the cheek, and occasionally on other areas in the mouth. They often occur as a result of a minor injury or irritation, such as sharp or rough fillings or deposits of tartar under the gums, followed by low-grade infection and exaggerated inflammation. Pyogenic granulomas develop rapidly, are normally soft and painless, and tend to bleed easily and profusely, due to the many small blood vessels that exist within them. Frequently, these lesions ulcerate and appear brownish or purple, mottled red and white, or red and yellow. Pyogenic granulomas vary in size from one centimeter to very large, tumor-like or lobular masses. They are most common in those between 11 and 40 years of age, but they can occur at any age.

When pyogenic granulomas occur in pregnant woman, they are also known as pregnancy tumors or granuloma gravidarum. Granuloma gravidarum accompany the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy.

* Pyogenic granulomas that are large or have been present for an extended period of time require surgical removal. We will also

remove or correct the irritating factor to ensure that they do not develop again.

* In pregnant women, these lesions have been known to disappear after delivery. However, this is not always true, and given their tendency

to bleed and ulcerate, we will usually recommend surgical removal of the lesion. We will also remove the source of the irritation.

* In spite of their growth potential, pyogenic granulomas are totally non-cancerous lesions.