Overview

An umbilical granuloma is a small, benign growth of tissue that can form at a newborn’s belly button after the umbilical cord has fallen off. This condition is relatively common and typically appears as a moist, red lump at the base of the navel. It occurs when the healing process of the umbilical stump is slightly delayed, leading to an overgrowth of tissue. Although it can be concerning to parents, an umbilical granuloma is usually harmless and can be easily treated.

Causes

The primary cause of an umbilical granuloma is incomplete healing of the umbilical stump after the cord detaches. Normally, the stump dries and falls off within the first few weeks of life, leaving a small wound that eventually heals. However, in some cases, the tissue at the base of the navel may continue to grow, forming a granuloma. Factors such as mild irritation, delayed cord separation, or infection may contribute to the development of this condition, although it is generally not associated with any serious underlying health issues.

Treatments

Treatment for an umbilical granuloma is typically simple and effective. The most common method involves applying a small amount of silver nitrate to the granuloma, which helps to dry out and shrink the tissue. This procedure is usually painless for the baby and can be done during a routine pediatric visit. In some cases, if the granuloma is larger or persistent, other treatments such as salt application, cryotherapy (freezing the tissue), or surgical removal may be recommended. Most umbilical granulomas resolve completely with appropriate treatment, and complications are rare.