Category: Skin Conditions

Pyogenic Granuloma is a benign skin growth, red in color, typically smaller than 2 centimeters. This lesion is also known as lobular capillary hemangioma or granuloma telangiectaticum. (1) The lesion sometimes follows a minor injury to the skin. The most common sites for pyogenic granuloma to develop are the head, neck, upper trunk, hands, and feet.(2)

The lesions are most often seen in:

  • Children and young adults;
  • Pregnant women;
  • Women taking oral contraceptives;
  • People taking certain oral retinoid medications, including isotretinoin or acitretin (Soriatane®);
  • People taking protease inhibitors such as indinavir (Crixivan®);
  • People on chemotherapy.(3)

While pyogenic granulomas are always benign, sometimes a skin cancer can resemble a pyogenic granuloma. For this reason, a sample is usually obtained for biopsy.(2) Since it is prone to bleeding, it is recommended that the lesion be covered with a bandage before treatment.(3)

The lesions are prone to recur. In pregnant women, pyogenic granulomas are likely to go away after delivery, and thus waiting is often considered the best strategy.(2) Cryosurgery is used to freeze and destroy small pyogenic granulomas.

In a prospective, observational study, 135 patients with pyogenic granuloma were treated with cryotherapy. Patients had between one and four treatments. “Complete resolution of the pyogenic granuloma was achieved in all patients after a mean of 1.58 treatments.” At the conclusion of the follow-up period, 16 patients had a flat imperceptible scar, smaller than the treatment lesion. Seven patients showed hypopigmentation. There were no other complications or side effects noted. The study concluded: “We believe that pyogenic granuloma can be treated simply and effectively with cryotherapy.”(5)

Hydrozid® is an FDA cleared portable cryosurgery device, designed for primary care physicians, pediatricians, dermatologists, and podiatrists, for the treatment of dermatofibromas, actinic keratosis, skin tags, warts, and a number of additional benign and premalignant skin conditions. Qualified providers, visit  our Registration page to set up an account and order.

(1) Delgado, A. Biggers, A. MD (reviewer) healthline, Pyogenic Granuloma, https://www.healthline.com/health/pyogenic-granuloma

(2) American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, Pyogenic Granuloma, https://www.aocd.org/page/PyogenicGranuloma

(3) skinsight, Pyogenic Granuloma, https://www.skinsight.com/skin-conditions/teen/pyogenic-granuloma

(4) Thomas, L. MD, Life Sciences Medical News, Treating Pyogenic Granuloma, https://www.news-medical.net/health/Treating-Pyogenic-Granuloma

(5) Mirshams, M, Daneshpazhooh, M., Mirshekar, A., et. al., Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology, Cryotherapy in the Treatment of Pyogenic Granuloma, https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/

Dermatofibromas are benign growths that are generally located on the lower extremities. They are four times more common in women than men, with most developing when a person is between 20 and 50 years of age.(1) They are the result of an accumulation of extra cells in the deeper layers of the skin.(2)

There is no known cause for dermatofibromas. “Some researchers theorize that a possible cause is an adverse reaction to a local trauma, such as a small injury or bug bite in the area where the lesion later forms.”(2)

Dermatofibromas are firm to the touch and can vary in color from pink to light brown in fair skin to dark brown in dark skin.(1) Diagnosis from a physician is important as other conditions may look similar to a dermatofibroma. These include:

  • hypertrophic scarring or keloid;
  • malignant melanoma;
  • squamous cell carcinoma;
  • basal cell carcinoma;
  • spitz nevus;
  • blue nevus.(2)

Generally, dermatofibromas do not require treatment. However, if they are irritated by clothing, get in the way of shaving, or are very noticeable, a person may seek treatment. Common treatments include surgical shaving of the top of the dermatofibroma, punching out the center, or cryosurgery.(3)

Advantages of cryosurgery include a short preparation time, low risk of infection and minimal wound care, states American Family Physician. “In addition, cryosurgery requires no expensive supplies or injectable anesthesia, and the patient does not have to return for suture removal.”(4)

Hydrozid® is an FDA cleared portable cryosurgery device, designed for primary care physicians, pediatricians, dermatologists, and podiatrists, for the treatment of dermatofibromas, actinic keratosis, skin tags, warts, and a number of additional benign and premalignant skin conditions. Qualified providers, visit  our Registration page to set up an account and order.

(1) American Family Physician, Diagnosing Benign Skin Tumors, https://www.aafp.org/

(2) Johnson, J., Bard, S. MD (reviewer) Medical News Today, What to know about Dermatofibromas, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/

(3) American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, Dermatofibromas, https://www.aocd.org/page/Dermatofibroma

(4) Andrews, M. MD, American Family Physician, Cryosurgery for Common Skin Conditions, https://www.aafp.org/

Keratoacanthoma (KA) is a common, benign skin growth that most often affects light-skinned, elderly individuals. It is rapidly growing and most often found on the face, hands, arms, and trunk. “If untreated, KAs usually stop growing around 6-8 weeks, stay dormant and unchanging for 2-6 weeks, and then finally spontaneously regress slowly over 2 to 12 months, frequently healing with scarring.”(1)

While the exact cause of KA is unknown, there are factors that put a person at increased risk, including:

  • sun exposure;
  • contact with chemical carcinogens, or cancer-causing chemicals;
  • smoking;
  • infection with some strains of a wart virus, such as human papillomavirus;
  • trauma;
  • genetic factors.(2)

There is often difficulty distinguishing KAs from squamous cell carcinoma, leading many clinicians to recommend treatment of these lesions.(3)

The therapy for keratoacanthoma is generally surgical excision of the lesion. Cryotherapy has been used successfully in treating small keratoacanthomas and in keratoacanthomas found in difficult to treat locations. Cryotherapy is also used as an adjunct to surgical removal.”(4)

Hydrozid® is an FDA cleared portable cryosurgery device, designed for primary care physicians, pediatricians, dermatologists, and podiatrists, for the treatment of dermatofibromas, actinic keratosis, skin tags, warts, and a number of additional benign and premalignant skin conditions. Qualified providers, visit  our Registration page to set up an account and order.

(1) American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, Keratoacanthoma, https://www.aocd.org/page/Keratoacanthoma

(2) Biggers, A. MD reviewer, Healthline, Keratoacanthoma, https://www.healthline.com/health/keratoacanthoma

(3) Brewer, J. MD,  Robinson, J. MD, Corona, R. MD, Keratoacanthoma: Management and Prognosis, https://www.uptodate.com/contents/keratoacanthoma-management-and-prognosis

(4) Chuang, T-Y MD, Medscape, Keratoacanthoma Treatment and Management, https://emedicine.medscape.com/

Age spots are common, especially in older people and in people who have spent a lot of time in the sun. They develop when the top layer of skin expands with more pigment. Often, they appear on areas of the body where the sun’s rays hit, such as the upper back, hands, and face.(1) Age spots are also called sunspots, liver spots, and solar lentigines.(2)

Anyone can develop age spots, but they are most common in people over 50 who have fair skin and have a family history of them.(3)
Generally, age spots have these characteristics:

  • Are flat, oval areas of increased pigmentation;
  • Are usually tan to dark brown;
  • Range from freckle size to about 1/2 inch (13 millimeters) across;
  • Can group together, making them more noticeable.(2)

Age spots are harmless. However, since some kinds of skin cancer can look like an age spot, it is important to have new changes in skin evaluated by a physician.(2) While age spots do not require treatment, many people choose treatment for cosmetic reasons. There are a number of treatments used, including topical creams that fade the spot, laser resurfacing, and chemical peel. Cryosurgery is also a common treatment.(3)

During cryosurgery, a cryogenic gas is applied to the skin, which freezes the age spot. There may be a blister or redness afterwards. As the skin heals, there is a more even skin tone.(1)

Hydrozid® is an FDA cleared portable cryosurgery device, designed for primary care physicians, pediatricians, dermatologists, and podiatrists, for the treatment of age spots, plantar warts, skin tags, and a number of additional benign and premalignant skin conditions. Qualified providers, visit to set up an account and order.

(1) American Academy of Dermatology, What Can Get Rid of Age Spots, https://www.aad.org/

(2) Mayo Clinic, Age spots (liver spots), https://www.mayoclinic.org/

(3) Cleveland Clinic, Age spots, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/

Molluscum contagiosum, a viral infection of the skin, is commonly seen in children. The infection manifests as round, firm, painless bumps. Adults, particularly those with weakened immune systems, can also be affected.(1)
Since other skin conditions may resemble molluscum, it is important that a physician diagnose the issue. The infection will often clear on its own, usually within six to nine months, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. However, some patients may continue to get bumps for years. In these cases, many will choose treatment.

Treatment may also be recommended for patients who have:

  • A chronic skin condition, such as eczema;
  • Molluscum in the genital area;
  • A weakened immune system and numerous bumps;
  • Extremely bothersome molluscum.(2)

“There is a consensus that treatment should be indicated in patients with extensive disease, secondary complications (bacterial superinfection, molluscum dermatitis, conjunctivitis), or aesthetic complaints.” Various treatments are used for the treatment of molluscum, including cryosurgery.(3)

Hydrozid® is a portable cryosurgery device, designed for primary care physicians, pediatricians, dermatologists, and podiatrists. Cryosurgery is not recommended for children under the age of 5. Hydrozid® is FDA cleared for the treatment of molluscum contagiosum, small keloids, actinic keratosis, skin tags, warts, and a number of additional benign and premalignant skin conditions. Qualified providers, visit our Registration Page to set up an account and order.

(1) Mayo Clinic, Molluscum Contagiosum, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/molluscum-contagiosum/
(2) American Academy of Dermatology, Molluscum Contagiosum: Diagnosis and Treatment, https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/molluscum-contagiosum-treatment
(3) Meza-Romero, R. Nabareete-Dechant, C., Downey, C. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, Molluscum Contagiosum: An Update and Review of New Perspectives in Etiology, Diagnosis and Treatment, https://www.dovepress.com/molluscum-contagiosum-an-update

A keloid, or keloid scar, is a raised scar that occurs after a skin injury. A keloid can occur wherever there is a skin injury but generally appears on the shoulders, chest, cheeks, or earlobe.(1) Some injuries that can lead to keloids include a surgery cut, a piercing, a burn, chickenpox, or acne.(2) While keloids are not harmful to one’s health, people may be bothered by the appearance of a keloid and thus seek treatment.(1)

Signs and symptoms of a keloid include:

  • Thick, irregular scarring, typically on the earlobes, shoulders, cheeks, or middle chest;
  • Shiny, hairless, lumpy, raised skin;
  • Varied size, depending on the size of the original injury and when the keloid stops growing;
  • Varied texture, from soft to firm and rubbery;
  • Reddish, brown or purplish, depending on skin color;
  • Itchiness;
  • Discomfort.(1)

Generally, a dermatologist can diagnose a keloid by its appearance alone. If a keloid resembles a skin growth that may be dangerous, a dermatologist will perform a skin biopsy, removing a small section of the growth.(3)

Often, there is a treatment plan for keloids that combines different methods of treatment, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. In cryotherapy, the keloid is frozen while saving the skin underneath. Used to reduce the size and hardness of a keloid, cryotherapy is often used in combination (before and after) with the injection of corticosteroids, in order to make the injection more effective. (3)

Hydrozid® is an FDA cleared portable cryosurgery/cryotherapy device, designed for primary care physicians, pediatricians, dermatologists, and podiatrists, for the treatment of small keloids, actinic keratosis, skin tags, warts, and a number of additional benign and premalignant skin conditions. Qualified providers, visit to set up an account and order.

(1) Mayo Clinic, Keloid Scars, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/keloid-scar/
(2) Thomason, E. MD (reviewer), University of Michigan, Keloid Scars, https://www.uofmhealth.org/
(3) American Academy of Dermatology, Keloids: Diagnosis and Treatment, https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/keloids-treatment

Actinic keratosis (AK) is the most common precancer that forms on skin damaged by exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays. The lesions often appear on sun-exposed areas, such as the face, lips, ears, shoulders, neck, and back. Generally, lesions appear as small, scaly patches of skin. They can be red, light or dark tan, pink, flesh-toned, or a combination of colors.(1)

Though only 5-10% of AKs turn into skin cancer, the majority of squamous cell skin cancers (which can be invasive) start out as AKs, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Having AKs raises a person’s lifetime risk of skin cancer.(1)

While anyone can develop actinic keratosis, people at increased risk include those who have one or more of the following characteristics:

  • Have red or blond hair and blue or light-colored eyes;
  • Have a history of a lot of sun exposure or sunburn;
  • Tend to freckle or burn when exposed to sunlight;
  • Are older than 40;
  • Live in a sunny place;
  • Work outdoors;
  • Have a weakened immune system.(2)

Treatment can prevent AKs from progressing to skin cancer, and can relieve common symptoms, such as itching or tenderness. The Skin Cancer Foundation states early treatment is particularly important for AKs on the head or neck, where skin cancers can be more aggressive.(3)

Cryosurgery is the most common treatment for AKs. For this treatment, the lesions are removed by freezing. The freezing causes blistering or peeling, and the damaged cells slough off, allowing new skin to appear. This treatment is done in a doctor’s office.(2)

Hydrozid® is an FDA cleared portable cryosurgery device, designed for primary care physicians, pediatricians, dermatologists, and podiatrists, for the treatment of actinic keratosis, skin tags, warts, and a number of additional nonmalignant skin conditions. Qualified providers, visit to set up an account and order.

(1) Goldberg, L. MD, Lebwhol M. MD, reviewers, Skin Cancer Foundation, Actinic Keratosis Overview, https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/actinic-keratosis/

(2) Mayo Clinic, Actinic Keratosis, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/actinic-keratosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354969

(3) American Academy Of Dermatology, 5 Facts You Should Know About Cancerous Skin Growths, https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/actinic-keratosis-facts-about-precancerous-skin-growths

Skin tags (or acrochordon) are small, noncancerous growths that are very common, with about half of all adults having at least one in their lifetime. While most skin tags are between 1-5mm, they can grow as large as a few centimeters. They are harmless and do not affect health, yet they can be unsightly and for that reason, many people with skin tags seek to have them removed.(1)

Skin tags are made up of many components, such as collagen fibers, fat, and sometimes nerve cells and tiny blood vessels. They are frequently found in areas of friction on the body, such as skin folds, neck, underarms or eyelids.(2)

There are different methods to remove skin tags, including electrocautery, in which an electric probe is used to burn off the skin tag. Excision, with scissors or scalpel, is another option. A commonly used method is cryosurgery, in which the skin tag is frozen off with a cryogenic gas.(2)

Since cryosurgery only targets the skin tag, little or no damage is done to the surrounding tissue. “Cryosurgery is a good choice for patients with medical conditions that my complicate more invasive surgical methods or have a history of bleeding problems,” states the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. The minimally invasive procedure has few side effects and offers a quick recovery time.(3)

Hydrozid® is an FDA cleared portable cryosurgery device, designed for primary care physicians, pediatricians, dermatologists, and podiatrists, for the treatment of skin tags, warts, and a number of additional benign and premalignant skin conditions. Qualified providers, visit to set up an account and order.

(1) Cleveland Clinic, Skin Tags (Acrochordons), https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21528-skin-tags-acrochordons

(2) Liu, K. MD, MHS, Harvard Health Publishing, Skin Tag Removal: Optional but Effective, https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/skin-tag-removal-optional-but-effective-2020032319079

(3) American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Cryosurgery for Skin Conditions, https://www.asds.net/skin-experts/skin-treatments/cryosurgery/cryosurgery-for-skin-growths