Description: The pyogenic granuloma is a red, nodular overgrowth of granulation tissue that arises from the mucosal or skin surface. Approximately two-thirds of oral lesions are found on the gingiva followed in descending order by the lips, tongue, buccal mucosa, palate, vestibule and edentulous areas. The interdental papilla of the maxillary facial gingiva is the single most common site. A review of more than 800 cases disclosed the mean size to be approximately 1.0 cm. with a range of 3 mm. to 4 cm. Females were more often affected (72%). Duration varied widely with a mean of 5.5 months. Because of the vascular nature of pyogenic granuloma, they bleed easily and some cause mild pain. They commonly develop during pregnancy. The association with pregnancy is so common that the lesion has also been called granuloma gravidarum or pregnancy tumor. Because pus is infrequently found in this lesion, the term pyogenic granuloma is a misnomer but remains the preferred term.

Etiology: The stimulus that provokes this overgrowth of granulation tissue is unknown although mild trauma and infection are prominently mentioned.
Treatment: Conservative excision.
Prognosis: Good. Recurrence is infrequently seen.
Differential diagnosis: Peripheral giant cell granuloma and peripheral fibroma.