Pyogenic versus pseudopyogenic granulomas.

Abstract

Surgeons are confronted daily with a myriad of skin pathology. Pyogenic and pseudopyogenic granulomas are certainly among the differential diagnoses to many nonhealing dermal lesions. This article revisits two types of vascularized lesions that are perhaps part neoplastic and part inflammatory/reparative. The differences clinically between these two types of lesions are few. The classical form generally is found along mucosal surfaces and upper extremities. The pseudopyogenic granuloma is more often found on the scalp and ears. Confirmation in their diagnoses is based strictly on their histological criteria. The management of these two types of lesions is identical. Excisional biopsies for all nonhealing lesions are warranted to rule out lesions with an ominous progression.