In plain words
A pyogenic granuloma is a small, benign growth of blood vessels that looks like a raw, red, bumpy lump. In pregnancy it most often shows up on the gums, where it is sometimes called a pregnancy tumor, though it is not a true tumor. Hormone changes and irritation from plaque on the teeth seem to play a part. It bleeds easily when brushed or bumped, which can be alarming. Many of these lumps shrink after birth, and a dentist can remove one if it bothers you or keeps bleeding. Because gum bleeding can have other causes, a dentist or provider can check any new lump. A lump that bleeds without reason, or that comes with bruising or bleeding elsewhere, is a call to your provider the same day.
The deeper version
Pyogenic granuloma is a lobular capillary hemangioma, a reactive, non-neoplastic vascular proliferation. It is typically triggered by minor trauma and local irritants such as dental plaque. Pregnancy lesions cluster on the gingiva, most often in the second trimester, and are thought to reflect estrogen and progesterone effects on the vasculature, with after delivery common. Histology shows proliferating capillaries with an inflammatory infiltrate and a lobular pattern. Clinically it must be distinguished from amelanotic melanoma, Kaposi sarcoma, and peripheral giant cell granuloma. Biopsy is indicated when a lesion is atypical, grows rapidly, or does not respond to local removal, and recurrence after excision is reported.
Where it comes up
What mothers here say about pyogenic granuloma
No one has posted under this term yet.
Sources
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists — Committee Opinion No. 569: Oral Health Care During Pregnancy and Through the Lifespan (2013)