Huong presented with a bright red, bud-like tumor, approximately 8 mm in size, on her lip. Doctor Doan Minh Thanh, from the Dermatology Department at Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi, diagnosed her condition as pyogenic granuloma. This benign vascular lesion typically appears on the skin and oral mucosa, often triggered by: lip biting, trauma, prolonged irritation from sharp teeth, toothpicks, or foreign objects. Hormonal changes, particularly in pregnant women, are also associated with some cases.

According to Doctor Thanh, pyogenic granuloma is not caused by bacteria. Instead, it results from an excessive proliferation of blood vessels at the site of injury. These tumors are typically red or purplish-red, with a smooth or bud-like surface. They can range from a few millimeters to several centimeters in size and develop rapidly within just a few weeks.

Pyogenic granulomas bleed easily because they contain many proliferating capillaries. Even minor impacts, brushing teeth, or eating can cause the lesion to bleed, leading to discomfort and affecting the patient's daily activities and well-being.

The lesion on Huong’s lip before treatment. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*

Doctors prescribed long-pulsed Nd laser treatment for Huong using the Fotona Dynamis system. This technology operates via selective photocoagulation, emitting laser light into the hemoglobin within blood vessels. This process blocks the blood supply to the tumor without causing significant damage to the surrounding healthy tissue. The method is minimally invasive, reduces bleeding, is quick to perform, and lowers the risk of scarring, making it suitable for areas like the lips, face, or oral mucosa.

Following local anesthesia, doctors applied the laser, causing the tumor to shrink and change color. After approximately one week, the treated area scabbed, gradually peeled away, and the lip mucosa recovered.

The oral mucosa and lip area are rich in blood vessels and frequently exposed to mechanical stress from eating and oral hygiene. Most minor scratches typically heal on their own within a few days. However, if unusual signs appear, such as a rapidly growing red lump, easy bleeding, persistence for many weeks, or frequent recurrence, patients should seek medical examination promptly.

Doctor Thanh emphasized that pyogenic granuloma is not dangerous. Nevertheless, any lesions appearing on the lips, oral mucosa, or head and neck region require examination to differentiate them from other conditions, such as: hemangiomas, mucosal polyps, precancerous lesions, or early-stage squamous cell carcinoma. Patients should avoid self-scratching, squeezing, using unverified medications, or applying traditional folk remedies, as these actions can lead to infection, increased bleeding, prolonged treatment, and a higher risk of scarring.

Thanh Ba