Pyogenic granuloma of the thumb mimicking squamous cell carcinoma of the nail subunit: case report and review of the literature

Pyogenic granuloma (PG) is a benign vascular lesion that usually occurs in the skin or mucous membranes. Multiple theories have been implicated in its aetiology. It can mimic variable malignancies in which histopathological examination plays a vital role. We report a case of PG of the left thumb nail subunit in a 40-year-old gentleman, who presented with left thumb mass after a trauma by a wooden splinter. Incisional biopsy of the lesion could not rule out squamous cell carcinoma. Therefore, full radiological studies were carried out as part of this highly suspicious lesion’s work-up. Excisional biopsy was performed and a full thickness skin graft was harvested from the left distal forearm and applied to cover the defect. Final histopathological examination revealed the diagnosis of PG. The wound subsequently healed well with good functional and aesthetic outcome.