A 98-year-old grandmother has caused public shock by cutting off a hornlike growth on her forehead using a pair of scissors.

The “horn” is a traditional symbol of longevity in Chinese folklore.

The woman, surnamed Gu, from Shanghai, had been living with the growth on her for several years.

It measured around 3 to 4 centimetres in diameter and, after removal, was reportedly as long as a finger.

During a hospital stay for a separate treatment, Gu grew annoyed by the growth and cut it off herself without consulting doctors.

The results were alarming.

Guo’s forehead swelled rapidly and the wound became exposed; she began bleeding profusely.

Doctors said she was in a potentially life-threatening situation and placed her on the critical list.