TREATMENT OUTCOMES OF UMBILICAL GRANULOMA IN CHILDREN BY TABLE SALT APPLICATION

Bảo Hoàng Văn, Quyết Trần Văn

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Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of at‑home management of pediatric umbilical granuloma using topical table‑salt application. Methods: A prospective cohort study of infants diagnosed with umbilical granuloma was treated with home‑based table‑salt application under physician guidance and monitoring from October 2024 through April 2025. Parents were instructed to cleanse the umbilical region with normal saline, apply finely ground table salt (sodium chloride) directly onto the granuloma, occlude with a sterile dressing for 30 minutes, then cleanse and leave exposed. This regimen was performed twice daily for 3–5 days. Clinical assessment was conducted at each visit. Results: Thirty‑nine patients (median age 5 weeks, range 3–13 weeks; 53% male, 47% female) were enrolled. The median granuloma diameter was 3 mm (range 1–8 mm). Complete resolution, defined as detachment of the granuloma and full epithelialization of the umbilical stump, was achieved in 34/39 patients (87.2%). Five patients (12.8%) showed no response and required surgical excision. The median number of salt applications until granuloma detachment was 2 sessions (range 1–7). Full umbilical healing occurred at a median of 4 days (range 3–10) post‑treatment initiation. No adverse events such as ulceration or bleeding were observed. Over a mean follow‑up of 5 months (range 2–9), there were no recurrences. Conclusion: Home‑based table‑salt application for pediatric umbilical granuloma is a feasible, safe, and cost‑effective intervention with high success rates and minimal resource requirements when conducted under physician instruction and follow‑up. No treatment‑related complications or recurrences were noted in the study cohort.

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References

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