Skin tags are common, harmless skin growths that appear to hang off the surface of the skin. These soft, flesh-colored lesions are also known by various medical terms, including acrochordon, papilloma, fibroepithelial polyp, soft fibroma, and pedunculated growths, indicating their attachment to the skin by a stalk-like structure. In some cases, they can take on a thread-like appearance, referred to as filiform.
Both men and women are susceptible to developing skin tags, particularly as they age. These growths can vary in size from a mere millimeter to several centimeters and often appear in areas where skin folds and friction occur, such as the neck, armpits, and groin. Individuals who are overweight or those with type 2 diabetes mellitus are more likely to develop skin tags, and they may experience multiple occurrences across their body.
Structurally, skin tags consist of loosely arranged collagen fibers and blood vessels enveloped by a layer of epidermis that may be thickened or thinned. Despite their harmless nature, they can sometimes be mistaken for other skin conditions, such as seborrhoeic keratoses, viral warts, or molluscum contagiosum. This resemblance underscores the importance of accurate identification, particularly for individuals who are concerned about the appearance of new skin growths.
The exact cause of skin tags remains unclear, though several factors are believed to contribute to their formation. Friction and irritation from skin rubbing together are thought to be primary triggers, which is why they frequently occur in areas of skin folds. Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or in conditions like acromegaly, may lead to elevated levels of growth factors that encourage their development. Additionally, insulin resistance, commonly associated with metabolic disorders, has been linked to a higher prevalence of skin tags. There is also speculation about the potential involvement of the human papillomavirus (HPV), though further research is needed to confirm its role in skin tag formation.
Although skin tags are medically harmless and do not require treatment, many individuals opt to have them removed for cosmetic reasons or if they become irritated by clothing or jewelry. Several effective removal methods are available. Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the skin tag with liquid nitrogen, is a commonly used technique that causes the tag to fall off after a period of time. Surgical excision, often performed using scissors, provides an immediate solution. Electrosurgery, also known as diathermy, uses high-frequency electrical currents to remove the tag while minimizing bleeding. Another method, ligation, involves tying a suture around the base of the skin tag to cut off its blood supply, leading to its eventual detachment.
In conclusion, skin tags are a benign yet often bothersome skin condition that can occur in people of all ages, with certain factors such as obesity and diabetes increasing their likelihood. While their presence poses no health risks, their removal is a simple process that can be performed using various techniques to suit individual preferences and needs. Those who notice new skin growths or are unsure about their diagnosis should consult a dermatologist for proper evaluation and guidance.
