In everyday language, “papilloma” most often refers to:
Skin tags (fibromas)Ā ā soft, small growths, often on the neck, under the armpits, under the breasts,Ā inĀ the groin. They are usuallyĀ harmlessĀ and do not hurt.
Viral wartsĀ ā flat or dome-shaped, on the hands, feet, knees, sometimes the face; caused by the human papillomavirus (Ā HPVĀ ), some are hard and rough.
Molluscum contagiosumĀ , seborrheic keratoses, etc. āĀ look similarĀ , butĀ are notĀ papillomas.
Since appearances can be deceiving,Ā the first step is a proper diagnosisĀ . If you are not sure what it is, consult a dermatologist ā this prevents mistakes and unnecessary scarring.
When is it necessary to see a doctor?
The growthĀ bleeds, grows rapidly, changes color/shapeĀ , itches severely, or hurts.
It appearsĀ on the eyelid/around the eye, on the genitals, on the lipsĀ .
You haveĀ diabetes, immunosuppression, pregnancyĀ , or a tendency to form keloids.
This is yourĀ firstĀ such formation and you have no diagnosis.
How is the diagnosis made?
It is usually clinical āĀ the dermatologist examines with a dermatoscope. If in doubt,Ā a biopsyĀ can be doneĀ . This is quick and prevents erroneous self-treatment.
Medical removal methods (most reliable)
These are theĀ highly effective and risk-controlledĀ procedures performed in the office:
Cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen)
Suitable for many warts and some papillomas. Usually 1ā3 sessions every 2ā3 weeks. Temporary whitening/blistering possible.Electrocoagulation/cauterization
Burning and simultaneous coagulation of the vessel. Fast, with a small wound, minimal bleeding.Radiofrequency excision
Precise cutting with radio waves; spares the surrounding skin and often leaves a finer scar.Laser (COā, erbium, etc.)
Very precise depth control; suitable for sensitive areas and multiple small lesions.Surgical excision (snip excision)
For larger or stalked papillomas; usually with local anesthesia, rapid healing.
The doctor chooses the technique based onĀ the size, location, typeĀ , and your preferences. This is the ābest methodā in the sense ofĀ the most suitable for the individualĀ .
