Atypical soft palate pyogenic granuloma in an elderly anticoagulated patient presenting with acute oropharyngeal hemorrhage

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Authors: Ammir Abuzahra, Ruba Atawneh, Raya Abu Ayyash, Jana Dwaik, Siwar Abu Sakout, Jehad Kashkeesh
Cited by: 1
References: 6

Abstract

Pyogenic granuloma (PG) is a benign lobular capillary proliferation of mucocutaneous tissues that usually arises in response to local irritation. It typically occurs on the gingiva, with extragingival sites such as the soft palate being very rare. We report a 69-year-old female on Apixaban who presented with sudden, profuse oropharyngeal bleeding. Examination revealed a friable, sessile erythematous mass on the right soft palate that was actively bleeding. The lesion was surgically excised with electrocautery under local anesthesia after appropriate management of anticoagulation. Histopathology confirmed lobular capillary hemangioma (PG). No recurrence was observed at follow-up. This case highlights the importance of prompt recognition and complete excision of PG in anticoagulated patients, as even small lesions may precipitate life threating hemorrhage.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Vascular Malformations and Hemangiomas Bone Tumor Diagnosis and Treatments Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology

Publication details

Journal / source
Journal of Surgical Case Reports
Publisher
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Volume
2026
Issue
2
Pages
rjag044–rjag044
Publication date
22 January 2026
Language
EN