What is an
umbilical granuloma?
An umbilical granuloma is a piece of tissue
that remains on your baby's belly button after the umbilical
cord falls off. Rather than healing up and becoming covered
with skin, a bright red stalk of tissue remains on the belly
button. It has a grainy surface and produces sticky mucus.
Without treatment, it could ooze and become an irritation
for several months.
How often
does it occur?
Umbilical granulomas are estimated to occur
in 1 in 500 births.
What is the
cause?
The reasons why some children develop an
umbilical granuloma are not well understood. The formation
of a granuloma has to do with how the tissue heals as the
umbilical cord separates from the baby. It does not seem to
be due to improper care of the remainder of the umbilical
cord after the baby is born.
In rare cases, a piece of tissue that looks
like an umbilical granuloma is actually connected to the
bladder or bowel. Your doctor can tell the difference
between this problem and an umbilical granuloma.
How is it
treated?
There are several ways to remove a granuloma:
- A chemical (silver nitrate) that
chemically burns the tissue can be put on the granuloma.
Because the granuloma has no nerves in it, it does not
hurt.
- Liquid nitrogen (a special, very cold
liquid) can be used to freeze the granuloma.
- The granuloma can be tied tight at the
base with surgical thread. This will cause the granuloma
tissue to die and eventually fall off.
Can I prevent an umbilical granuloma?
There is no known way you can prevent the
development of a granuloma. Although cleaning the umbilical
cord will not prevent a granuloma, it is best to keep the
area clean by wiping around the cord with clean water or
alcohol several times every day until the cord falls off.
When should I
call my child's health care provider?
Call during office hours if:
- You notice redness on the abdomen
(belly).
- You have other concerns or questions.
