These fibroblasts, or connective tissue cells, are responsible for the production of collagen and additional fibers, resulting in the excess tissue mass found in the granuloma. Additional histological studies reveal an increase of cell division of vascular endothelial cells. These cells line our blood vessels and are further responsible for the growth and development of tissue and the formation of new blood vessels within the granuloma. Pathophysiology
Inflammatory saprophytic microorganisms, involved with decomposition, may delay the healing process, and can lead to overproduction of fibroblasts that are involved in normal skin restoration. These microorganisms can interfere with the skin’s normal flora, and lead to increased pathogenic inflammation that leads to delayed epithelialization and the formation of granulomas with excessive blood vessels, fibroblasts, and mucus. Signs and symptoms
Umbilical granulomas appear as round, pink lumps found at the base of the umbilicus after the removal of the umbilical cord. It appears small, pink/red, and moist due to cord separation. They are usually 1-10 mm in size, however grow in size if they are not treated. Umbilical granulomas are also painless since they do not contain nerve fibers. In some cases, they may contain an odorless discharge, or may be covered in a clear mucus. The surrounding skin of the infants umbilicus site will appear normal. Umbilical granulomas can become entry points for infectious agents. Symptoms such as edema, redness around the umbilical site, pain or discomfort when the area is touched, accompanied by a fever and purulent discharge, may indicate sepsis or a serious infection at the umbilicus site.
Spastic quadriplegia can be caused by a condition known as periventricular leukomalacia which results in the formation of lesions and holes in the white matter of the brain.Prior to the 26th week of maturation, the fetal brain is particularly susceptible to various toxins whose effects can ultimately hinder normal development. Exposure of the brain to infectious agents is especially dangerous because they can trigger immune responses that activate cytokines and lead to inflammation of the brain. Some infections that have been linked to the development of spastic quadriplegia include meningitis, herpes, rubella, and encephalitis. A difference in blood types between the mother and the fetus can also initiate a problematic immune response and cause brain damage. Severe jaundice, can also lead to brain damage and spastic quadriplegia due to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood.Bleeding in the brain caused by fetal strokes, blood clots, weak and malformed blood vessels, or high maternal blood pressure may also lead to brain damage causing spastic quadriplegia. Maternal infection, most specifically pelvic inflammatory disease, has been shown to increase the risk of fetal stroke.Hypoxia, lack of oxygen to the brain, can also cause damage in the cerebral motor cortex and other brain regions. This lack of oxygen can be the result of placenta malfunction, womb rupture, umbilical cord damage, low maternal blood pressure or asphyxia during labor and delivery.Children who experienced many complications during birth, such as, prematurity, insufficient oxygen, low birthweight, aspiration, head injury, or bleeding in the brain have a greater risk of developing spastic quadriplegia.