Before entering fully into the meaning of the term granuloma, it is necessary to know its etymological origin. In this case, we can point out that it is a word that derives from Latin. Exactly it is the result of the sum of two lexical components of said language:
-The noun “granum”, which can be translated as “grain”.
-The suffix “-oma”, which is used to indicate “mass” or “tumor”.
A small inflammation of tissue is called a granuloma . It is a mass formed by the agglomeration of immune cells, generated when the immune system seeks to isolate a foreign element that it could not eliminate.
Granulomas, thus, can appear in the presence of a fungus or bacteria , for example. Various types of infections can cause the development of a granuloma.
The cells that form granulomas are known as macrophages , since they can ingest damaged cells, bacteria and other elements through a process called phagocytosis . When phagocytosis cannot occur, macrophages clump together and form a ball-like structure: the granuloma.
Leprosy , histoplasmosis and tuberculosis are some of the infectious diseases that cause the appearance of granulomas. There are also diseases that are not infectious but are still characterized by granulomas, such as Crohn's disease and sarcoidosis .
We speak of a foreign body granuloma when there is a foreign material that is surrounded by cells. This type of granuloma can appear due to trauma , the use of a cosmetic product or a post-surgical process, among other reasons. An insect bite, a tattoo, and a suture are among the causes of foreign body granulomas.
In the same way, we cannot ignore the existence of what is known as pyogenic granuloma, which can be defined as a type of benign vascular tumor that, although it can occur in any part of the body, is usually present. inside the capillaries and even in the mucous membranes. In addition, it is also known by the name lobular capillary hemangioma.
Likewise, it should be noted that the origin of this granuloma is usually the intake of some medications as well as trauma and that it is very common in minors and young people. To all this we must add that it usually presents in the form of a raised, bleeding lesion of an intense red color.
A granuloma annulare , finally, appears on the feet or hands for unknown reasons, although it is estimated that it could develop as a reaction to certain medications or minor skin lesions. This condition can cause itching, although it does not cause major discomfort.
It is also established that among the causes of this so-called granuloma annulare may be certain infections, such as hepatitis, as well as the bites of some animals and even excessive exposure to the sun or having undergone a tuberculin skin test. , For example.