Which lesion is a benign vascular growth that bleeds easily?

• A. Seborrheic keratosis
• B. Actinic keratosis
• C. Lichen planus
• D. Pyogenic granuloma

Answer: (D)

A lesion that is a benign vascular growth and bleeds easily is best explained by pyogenic granuloma. This is a lobular capillary hemangioma composed of a dense network of fragile capillaries in granulation tissue and inflammatory cells. Because the blood vessels are numerous and delicate, even minor trauma or irritation can cause brisk bleeding or oozing. It often presents as a small, red, friable mass on the skin or mucosa, sometimes rapidly enlarging and commonly seen on the gingiva or following irritation.

Seborrheic keratosis is a stuck-on, waxy or crumbly keratinized patch that doesn’t typically bleed easily. Actinic keratosis appears as a rough, scaly sun-damaged patch and is premalignant rather than vascular. Lichen planus shows purple, pruritic, flat-topped papules or plaques with possible white lines, not a friable vascular growth.