This month we have covered umbilical granulomas and hernias as part of the feature on 6-8 week baby checks. Our surgeon with an interest in paediatrics is happy to see children from around 3 years of age if their umbilical hernia has not spontaneously resolved by then.  This topic is covered succintly, including a list of differential diagnoses, in an on-line Australian handbook of neonatal care. Inguinal hernias are a different matter altogether (they carry a far greater risk of becoming incarcerated) and one of the junior paediatricians is working on a “Pearl” about them for the May or June PP edition. 

There is not much evidence published on what to do with umbilical granulomas.   They occur when the inflammatory process at the umbilicus leads to excess granulation tissue preventing the raw area from developing new epithelial tissue.  One theory is that infection has a part to play.  I do nothing when asked about them in the Emergency Department but then I don’t follow up those patients so some GPs may feel that masterly inactivity is not enough!  They tend to take a few weeks to months to clear up.  There are references in the literature to fusidic acid, cool boiled water, salt, silver nitrate and reassurance.  Salt seems to be “in” at the moment.  All comments welcome!