What are the causes of a bleeding umbilical cord mass?

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Last updated: May 22, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for a Bleeding Umbilical Mass

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Umbilical granuloma: This is the most common cause of a bleeding umbilical mass, especially in newborns. It occurs when the umbilical stump doesn't heal properly, leading to the formation of a granuloma that can bleed.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Umbilical polyp: A benign growth that can cause bleeding from the umbilicus.
    • Omphalitis: An infection of the umbilical stump that can cause bleeding, discharge, and other symptoms.
    • Umbilical hernia with incarceration or strangulation: Although less common, an umbilical hernia can cause a mass and bleeding if it becomes incarcerated or strangulated.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Omphalomesenteric duct cyst or sinus: A congenital anomaly that can cause bleeding, infection, or intestinal obstruction if not treated promptly.
    • Umbilical metastasis (Sister Mary Joseph nodule): A rare but potentially life-threatening condition where cancer metastasizes to the umbilicus.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Umbilical endometriosis: A rare condition where endometrial tissue grows in the umbilicus, causing cyclic bleeding and pain.
    • Umbilical leiomyoma: A rare benign tumor that can cause a bleeding umbilical mass.
    • Patent urachus: A congenital anomaly where the urachus (a tube connecting the bladder to the umbilicus) fails to close, potentially causing bleeding or urinary leakage from the umbilicus.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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