Many people once in their lives had problems with warts on the body, namely: on the feet, on the face, etc.

Papillomas look ugly and are the cause of many diseases. But not all people know this. Many people believe in alternative medicine, trying to remove them with the help of a red thread, an apple and other things that do not always help.

Reasons for appearance

The reasons for the appearance of warts on the body in people is when the human papillomavirus, or HPV, enters the body. More often, this virus appears as a result of personal contact with patients.

The reason may also lie in the use of different common items. You can also “earn” HPV in public baths or saunas, or as a manicurist due to poor disinfection of equipment. Papillomas are also transmitted through sexual intercourse.

Usually, when papilloma enters a person’s body, it does not manifest itself in any way for a long time.

Often the virus can manifest itself in pregnant women, when immunity is greatly reduced, or there are endocrine diseases, including diabetes.

Another reason is hypothermia, constant stress, nervous tension and chronic fatigue. It is rare, but a person can infect himself. When men shave, they can get microtraumas, and then several small warts on the face can spread throughout the body.

Types of warts on the body

Treatment of warts with vinegar

Acetic acid is used to treat papillomas.

You need to put one drop of vinegar on the site of the wart. The procedure should be done in the evening, before bedtime.

Why do you dream of warts on the body?

There are no identical interpretations for such dream plots. Depending on their mood, people who compile dream books about warts on the body explain dreams in terms of beneficial actions.

In general, the rapid growth of warts is an expectation of an unfavorable period in life. The body will have to fight diseases. A lot of dream meanings are attached to the location of tumors.

Why are warts on the body dangerous?

Viral infections can occur through direct contact with the skin of the source of infection, so you need to be extremely careful and follow all the rules of personal hygiene so that viruses do not spread to healthy organisms.

The papilloma virus is dangerous because it can easily exist without the participation of the human body for several months. The papilloma virus can exist in the shower, on benches, floors and remain there for a long time until the room is disinfected.

The virus is very aggressive and contagious. Warts attack the human skin through direct contact and enter the body through external skin cells.

If plantar papillomas are not treated promptly, they can become very painful. Plantar warts can also spread by autoinoculation, infecting healthy skin on the foot. Small warts on the foot can unite and form extensive papillomas in the form of a mosaic.

Moles, warts, wen... Who would have thought that these completely harmless cosmetic defects are on a par with much more unpleasant oncological pathologies.

Numerous types of skin tumors They can be either completely safe for health or capable of harming surrounding tissues and even posing a threat to human life. The latter include mainly malignant skin tumors, less often - borderline precancerous conditions.

How and why do they appear? In what cases can they be removed in a cosmetologist’s office, and in what cases should you consult a doctor for full treatment? The site studies the issue with particular passion:

What are neoplasms and what are they like?

In terms of their structure, all skin neoplasms (they are also called “tumors” or “neoplasia”) are the result of uncontrolled proliferation of cells that have not yet reached maturity, and therefore have lost the ability to fully perform their functions. Depending on the clinical picture, they are usually divided into 3 types:

• Benign
  (atheroma, hemangioma, lymphangioma, lipoma, papilloma, mole, nevus, fibroma, neurofibroma)

  They do not pose a threat to human life, but if poorly placed or large in size, they can cause disruption in the functioning of other systems and/or organs of our body. Under external influences they can sometimes transform into malignant neoplasms.

• Malignant
  (basal cell carcinoma, melanoma, sarcoma, liposarcoma)
  

  Grow quickly and aggressively, penetrating into surrounding tissues and organs, often with the formation of metastases . The prognosis of such diseases is often unfavorable, given the difficulty of curing them and the tendency for frequent relapses, and in some cases, active metastasis leads to death if vital organs are irreversibly damaged.

• Borderline or precancerous skin conditions
  (senile keratoma, xeroderma pigmentosum, cutaneous horn, Bowen's dermatosis)
  

  Formations, the tissues of which, under the influence of hereditary or current causes, have changed, having the potential to degenerate into malignant tumors.

Benign neoplasms

The cells of these formations partially retain their original functions and have slow growth rates. Sometimes they press on nearby tissues, but never penetrate them. In their structure, such neoplasms are similar to the tissues from which they originated. As a rule, they respond well to surgical and other hardware treatment and rarely recur.

• Atheroma

A tumor of the sebaceous gland formed after its blockage. Most often it occurs on the scalp, neck, back, and groin area, that is, in places with a high concentration of sebaceous glands. It looks like a dense formation with clear contours, elastic and mobile during palpation, and does not cause discomfort.

When suppuration occurs, redness and swelling of the tissues, pain, and increased body temperature appear. An inflamed atheroma can break out on its own, releasing purulent-sebaceous contents. This epithelial cyst has a tendency to transform into a malignant form - liposarcoma. Atheroma can only be removed through surgical excision.

Photo 1.2 - atheroma on the face and back:

Photo 3.4 - skin hemangioma in newborns: on the body and face:

• Hemangioma

Benign vascular tumor formation. It can be simple capillary (on the surface of the skin), cavernous (in the deep layers of the skin), combined (combining the two previous forms) and mixed (affecting not only blood vessels, but also surrounding tissues, mainly connective tissue).

Capillary hemangioma can reach large sizes, its color varies from red to bluish-black, and grows mainly to the sides. The cavernous variety is a limited subcutaneous nodular formation covered with bluish or normal-colored skin. Most often, these tumors appear in newborns, literally in the first days of life, and are located in the head and neck area.

If the geangioma is located in a complex area of ​​the body (for example, on the face in the orbital area) or occupies a large area, it is removed by radiation. Other treatment methods are sclerotherapy, cryotherapy, hormonal drugs. When the tumor is deep and conservative treatment is ineffective, surgical excision is required, including the underlying layers of skin.

• Lymphangioma

A benign formation from the walls of lymphatic vessels that occurs in children even at the stage of intrauterine development. Most of these tumors are detected before 3 years of age. It is a thin-walled cavity ranging in size from 1 mm to 5 cm or more (cystic lymphangioma, consisting of several isolated or communicating cysts).

It grows very slowly, but in some cases there is sudden growth to a significant size - in this case, surgical removal is required. Also, lymphangiomas located in close proximity to the trachea, larynx or other vital organs are necessarily removed.

Photo 5.6 - cystic lymphangioma on the body and in the oral cavity, near the tongue:

Photo 7.8 - lipoma (fat) on the back and face:

• Lipoma

A tumor of the fat layer (often called a “wen”) located in the subcutaneous layer of loose connective tissue. It can penetrate deep into the body to the periosteum, seeping between vascular bundles and muscles. Most often found in areas where the fat layer is thinnest - the outer surface of the hips and shoulders, shoulder girdle, upper back. It looks like a soft formation, mobile and painless on palpation.

Lipoma grows quite slowly and is generally safe for the body, although in rare cases it can degenerate into a malignant formation called liposarcoma. At the same time, if the wen grows and begins to put pressure on surrounding tissues, surgical removal is indicated. It is better not to wait for this moment, since the larger the tumor, the more noticeable the postoperative scar will be. But using laser, radio wave or puncture-aspiration methods, after which there are practically no traces left on the skin.

• Papillomas and warts

Formations in the form of a nodule or papilla, having a viral nature. They are caused by various strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), usually due to decreased immunity, stress and vegetative disorders. Externally they are very diverse, most often they look like growths of various shapes and sizes, coloring from light to dark brown and gray.

Melanomic moles and nevi do not require treatment, but experts recommend getting rid of those that are constantly injured or are located on open areas of the body and are often exposed to sunlight in order to avoid complications. The method here is not so critical: in addition to a scalpel, a mole can be removed with a laser, cryodestruction or radio waves.

• Fibroma (dermatofibroma)

Formations in connective tissue, which are most often found in women at a young and mature age. They are small in size (up to 3 cm), look like a deeply sealed nodule, spherically protruding above the surface of the skin, the color is gray to brown, sometimes blue-black, the surface is smooth, less often warty. It grows slowly, but there is a possibility of oncological complications: in rare cases, fibroma can degenerate into malignant fibrosarcoma.

Photo 13,14 - fibroma on the fingers and toes:

Photos 15,16 - single neurofibroma of the skin and neurofibromatosis:

• Neurofibroma

A tumor that grows from nerve sheath cells. Most often located in the skin and subcutaneous tissue. It is a dense tubercle measuring from 0.1 to 2-3 cm, covered with depigmented or highly pigmented epidermis. Multiple neurofibromas are caused by hereditary or genetic causes and are considered a separate disease - neurofibromatosis.

This tumor rarely transforms into a malignant one, but in itself it is quite dangerous - it can cause constant pain and cause serious functional disorders in the body, and therefore requires treatment, at least pharmacological (retinoids). In difficult cases, surgical excision or radiation therapy is indicated.

Malignant neoplasms of the skin

Formations of this type quickly grow, penetrate into surrounding tissues, and often form metastases even in organs distant from the lesion due to the transfer of pathological cells through the circulatory and lymphatic systems. In these tumors, the body's control over cell division is completely lost, and the cells themselves lose the ability to perform their specific functions. Malignant neoplasms are quite difficult to treat; they are characterized by frequent relapses of the disease even after surgical removal.

The main signs of the degeneration of a benign tumor or a stable borderline skin condition into a malignant formation are:

• pigmentation changing in color or saturation;
• sharp and rapid increase in size;
• spread of the tumor to neighboring tissues;
• bleeding, ulceration, etc.

Metastases of malignant neoplasms can occur in any organs and tissues, but most often the lungs, liver, brain, and bones are affected. At the metastasis stage, the prognosis for treatment is often negative, including death.

• Melanoma

One of the most common types of cancer. In most cases, it is the result of malignancy of moles and nevi after severe trauma or excessive ultraviolet irradiation. Gives metastases to almost any organ, starting with regional lymph nodes, and often recurs. It is treated surgically, in combination with chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Photo 17,18 - this is what melanoma may look like:

Photo 19.20 - basal cell carcinoma of the face:

• Basalioma

A dangerous type of squamous cell skin cancer is formed from atypical basal cells of the epidermis. At the first stage, it looks like a white nodule with a dry crust on the surface, over time it grows in width and begins to ulcerate, then transforms into a deep ulcer or mushroom-shaped nodule protruding above the surface of the skin. It develops in areas of the body exposed to ultraviolet radiation, high temperatures, and carcinogenic substances. It is treated with standard methods - surgical excision, radiation, chemotherapy, cryotherapy or laser therapy.

• Kaposi's sarcoma , angiosarcoma, hemorrhagic sarcomatosis

Multiple malignant formations in the dermis. They look like violet, purple or lilac spots without clear boundaries; gradually dense round nodes up to 2 cm in diameter of a bluish-brown color appear on them, with a tendency to unite and ulcerate. Most often, this type of sarcoma affects HIV-infected people, occurring in an aggressive form, quickly leading to death.

Photo 21.22 - Kaposi's sarcoma on the leg:

Photo 23.24 - liposarcoma in the hips and shoulder area:

Photo 25,26 - fibrosarcoma of soft tissues:

• Liposarcoma

Malignant tumor of adipose tissue. Most often they occur in men and people aged 50 years or more. In most cases, it develops against the background of benign formations - lipomas and atheromas. Liposarcoma usually grows slowly and rarely metastasizes. When localized in the subcutaneous fat, it is palpated as a fairly large (up to 20 cm) single round-shaped node with irregular outlines and uneven density, hard or elastic to the touch. Surgical treatment and chemotherapy in combination with radiation are used.

• Fibrosarcoma

Develops in soft tissues, mainly connective tissues, most often in the lower extremities. When localized superficially, it can protrude noticeably above the skin and has a dark blue-brown color. At a deeper location it is visually invisible. There are differentiated and poorly differentiated fibrosarcoma, the first is considered less dangerous - it grows relatively slowly and does not metastasize, but both types give a high percentage of relapses after removal.

Precancerous skin growths

This group includes pathological conditions of cells that are more or less likely to result in degeneration into malignant formations.

• Bowen's disease (intraepidermal cancer)

Formation in the epidermis without germination into surrounding tissues. If proper treatment is not carried out, it transforms into invasive skin cancer with proliferation and metastasis. Most often observed in older people, localized on the head, palms, and genitals. Bowen's disease is caused by some chronic dermatoses, keratinized cysts, skin trauma with scarring, radiation, ultraviolet and carcinogenic exposure.

At the initial stage, it looks like a reddish-brown spot from 2 mm to 5 cm without smooth borders, then it transforms into a raised plaque with raised edges and a flaky surface. After removing the scales, a non-bleeding, weeping surface is revealed. Evidence of the transition of Bowen's disease to a malignant form is ulceration.

• Xeroderma pigmentosum

A tumor that develops when the skin is excessively sensitive to ultraviolet radiation, when age spots become warty growths. This disease is quite rare and is hereditary. In the early stages, treatment comes down to taking medications that reduce susceptibility to UV rays with clinical observation by a dermatologist or oncologist. At the stage of formation of growths, their surgical removal is recommended.

• Senile keratoma (senile keratosis)

It looks like rashes up to 1 cm in diameter, ranging in color from yellow to dark brown. As they develop, dry crusts and scales form on the spots, which when peeled off cause slight bleeding. The formation of compactions in the tumor indicates the transition of a borderline state into a malignant tumor.

Photo 31.32 - senile (seborrheic) keratoma:

Photo 33.34 - cutaneous horn on the face:

• Cutaneous (senile) horn

A cone-shaped formation resembling a horn of yellowish or brown color, which is why it got its name. Characteristic of older people, it occurs mainly in open areas of the skin that are regularly subjected to friction or compression, and is formed from cells of the spinous layer of the skin. It develops as an independent formation, a consequence of benign tumors (most often warts) or the initial stage of squamous cell carcinoma. It is removed surgically.

Removal and prevention of skin tumors

Experts agree that you should get rid of any tumors, regardless of whether they are benign or malignant. The only exceptions are those that are completely harmless and impractical for removal, for example, a scattering of small moles throughout the body.

With timely intervention, the prognosis for benign tumors and borderline precancerous conditions is positive - complete cure, excluding relapses and malignancy of formations. If the formation was initially malignant, the prognosis may not be so favorable; treatment will require considerable effort, but it will be completely ineffective only if metastases form in vital organs.

As for prevention, today there are no uniform measures agreed by doctors against the occurrence or malignancy of neoplasms. Key recommendations include:

• regularly pay attention to the condition of your skin and, at the slightest suspicion of the formation of tumors and similar formations, contact a dermatologist or oncologist;
• remove moles, warts and other suspicious formations only after consultation with a specialist who will confirm their good quality;
• avoid excessive ultraviolet exposure to the skin, constantly use special products with filters, especially for people prone to the formation of moles and age spots;
• avoid skin contact with carcinogenic and chemically active substances;
• reduce the consumption of foods that can cause cancer - these include smoked meats, animal fats, sausages and other meat products with a large amount of food stabilizers.

Papillomas and condylomas- These are benign formations on the skin. Their appearance is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).

These growths spoil your appearance and undermine your self-confidence. After all, they often appear in open places: the face, neck, décolleté. In addition, these outgrowths are injured by clothing and become inflamed. But the most unpleasant thing is when papillomas and condylomas appear on the genitals. They can not only ruin your intimate life, but also cause the development of cancer.

The disease caused by papillomavirus is called papilomatosis. This disease is common among people who are sexually active. According to some data, 80% of adult women have its manifestations. 70% of them became infected through sexual contact. In men, external signs of the disease are much less common - 1% have warts on the genitals, 30-40% have an asymptomatic course of the disease.

There are two periods in a person’s life when the risk of infection is especially high. The first occurs at the beginning of sexual life at 17-25 years old, and the second at the peak of new partnerships at 35-40 years old. Due to the peculiarities of the development of immunity, children and adolescents who become infected from their parents are very susceptible to this virus.

Older and obese people are more prone to developing papillomas. In them, these tumors appear in skin folds and on the face.

Infection with a virus does not always lead to the appearance of papillomas. The pathogen lives in skin cells and if a person’s immunity is strong, then he successfully copes with this infection. But if the body’s defenses fall, then condylomas or papillomas appear on the skin.

Many people are interested in the difference between papillomas and condylomas. In fact, these are manifestations of different forms of the same virus.

Condylomas– these are benign neoplasms that are caused by human papillomavirus types 6 and 11. Some scientists believe that condylomas more often degenerate into cancerous tumors. They are found in the genital area and anus (anus), but can sometimes appear near the mouth. Condylomas often appear in the form of a rash consisting of many elements. They have the unpleasant property of merging and reaching large sizes. On the mucous membrane of the genital organs they grow in the form of a cock's comb.

Condylomas are red or dirty brown in color, but on the genitals they are lighter. They are softer and more delicate to the touch than papillomas. Their structure resembles many villi that grow together at the base.

Condylomas are more contagious and tend to reappear after treatment. They come in three varieties: condylomas acuminata, flat and intraepithelial. These formations must be removed. At the same time, doctors register all cases of condylomatosis.

Papillomas– these are benign neoplasms that are caused by less dangerous varieties of the human papillomavirus, most often types 1, 2, 3, 4, and 10. The risk of developing an oncological tumor in this case is low; papillomas are more likely a cosmetic defect than a serious problem. They are located on different parts of the skin: on the eyelids, in the mouth and lips, on the chest and neck, and in the armpits. But they can also be on the genitals.

Papillomas are lighter in color than condylomas: pink, white, pearly or light brown. As a rule, they appear one at a time and do not merge with each other. Rarely exceed the size of 1 cm in height. The appearance of papillomas is also different - they are round, tuberous formations on a stalk. They look like cauliflower and are firm to the touch.

Papillomas are more treatable and can disappear on their own over time. This happens in 20% of cases.

So, let's summarize. Papillomas are a less dangerous form of manifestation papillomavirus person. But condylomas must be removed. But it is difficult to independently distinguish condyloma from papilloma, because each person’s disease has its own characteristics. Therefore, in any case, consult your doctor for advice.

Skin papillomas

Causes of papillomas

Papilloma is a round benign tumor on a thin stalk, which is shaped like a papilla. But this is not the disease itself, but its consequences. Papillomas can be compared to mushrooms. Although we see them on the surface, the mycelium has spread its networks underground. In the case of papillomas, everything is exactly the same.

The cause of this infectious disease is the human papillomavirus (HPV). It gets on the skin and begins to multiply in its surface layer - squamous epithelium. The virus, like a mycelium, sits unnoticed in the thickness of the skin. But when immunity falls, and a sufficient amount of the pathogen accumulates, it changes the nuclei of epithelial cells. And because of this, they begin to produce “wrong” descendants. Skin cells mutated by the virus actively grow and cause the appearance of papilloma.

Routes of transmission and methods of infection

1. Through sexual contact. The thin mucous membrane of the genital organs is very susceptible to the virus. If your partner has papillomas on the genitals, then the probability of infection is almost 100%. Using a condom can reduce the risk. But if the growths are located in an unprotected place (for example, the perineum), then infection will occur in this case as well. We must remember that with such a partner any type of sexual contact, even kissing, is dangerous.
2. From mother to child during childbirth. This happens when the expectant mother has condylomas on the internal or external genitalia. During childbirth, the child ingests the virus and develops papillomas on the larynx. This form of the disease is difficult to treat.
3. Through everyday objects. Especially often, infection occurs through towels, washcloths, razors, and epilators. Children from sick parents become infected this way.
4. Infection in public places. Bathhouses, swimming pools and gym locker rooms can be dangerous. The virus left by a sick person on wet surfaces does not die. It causes infection if the infection gets on injured skin. But the likelihood of this is not great.
5. Autoinfection. This means that one papilloma can cause the appearance of a dozen more tumors. Self-infection occurs during shaving or hair removal, or when rubbing with clothing.

Human papillomavirus, types of papillomas

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common on the planet. The causative agent of the disease itself is a double strand of DNA with genetic information, surrounded by a protective protein shell. There are more than 100 varieties of it. Of these, 40 cause disease in humans. Depending on the type of pathogen, the disease has different manifestations: warts, genital, flat or intradermal papillomas and genital cancer.

After infection, the virus penetrates the nuclei of skin cells and begins to multiply there. This continues for about 3-12 months. This period is called the incubation period: the virus is already in the body, but external manifestations are still not noticeable.

Then, if the immune system is weakened, microscopic papillae consisting of several cells appear on the surface of the skin. They gradually increase and can grow up to 10 centimeters. If the immune system is strong, then papillomatosis either does not manifest itself at all or self-healing occurs. This can happen in young people under 25 years old, after childbirth or when a chronic disease has subsided.

There are several types of papillomaviruses:

1. Non-oncogenic papillomaviruses (HPV 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 63). This is a group of viruses that do not cause degeneration in skin cells. HPV types 1, 2, 4 and 63 often cause plantar and vulgar warts on the fingers. 3 and 10 cause flat warts, which were previously considered a severe form of the disease. In fact, in this way the body tries to limit the spread of the virus. It seems to create a “sarcophagus” around the affected cells.
2. Oncogenic papillomaviruses of low oncogenic risk (HPV 6, 11, 42, 43, 44). These types of viruses can eventually cause cancer, but the risk of this development is not very high. Squamous epithelial cells of the skin mutate only if the body is affected by carcinogenic factors: smoking, poor environment, long-term use of hormonal contraceptives. Viruses 6 and 11 often cause the development of papillomas on the larynx and genital warts on the genitals.
3. Oncogenic papillomaviruses of high oncogenic risk (HPV 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59 and 68) Infection with these viruses often leads to cancer, especially tumors of the cervix and larynx. They also cause neoplasia, a precancerous condition that manifests itself in changes in the structure of uterine cells. The most dangerous in this group is HPV 16. This type of virus causes 50% of cancer cases. Strain 18 is also quite aggressive and often causes cervical tumors. Types 31 and 35 cause bowenoid papulosis in men and women, which can cause cancer of the penis and cervix. HPV types 51 and 56 are considered the least carcinogenic of the entire group, are easier to treat and can be eliminated from the body on their own.

Prognosis of the course of the disease

The most unfavorable prognosis is for type 18 of the virus. The disease can turn into cancer in 3-5 years, which quickly spreads metastases to other organs. The tumor behaves aggressively and grows deep into the genital organs. The prognosis for type 16 infection is slightly better, but the likelihood of tumor recurrence after treatment is high.
The prognosis for types 31, 33, 35, 39, 52, 58, 59 is unfavorable. 2-3 years after treatment, the disease manifests itself again and often becomes malignant. Cancers caused by these types of virus have high mortality rates.

Such unfavorable prognosis should alert a person if he discovers even a small growth on the skin. It is necessary to consult a dermatologist or gynecologist who can accurately diagnose.
The type of human papillomavirus can be determined in laboratories. To do this, take a smear or scraping from the area of ​​the skin where there are growths. Then the DNA of the virus is determined in the laboratory. Types of papillomavirus differ in the structure of sections of the DNA chain. Helps recognize differences polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Symptoms and what do skin papillomas look like?

Papillomas on the face(photo)

These benign growths are often located in areas where the skin is thinnest: near the eyes, around the nose and mouth. And on men’s chin in the shaving area. The growths may appear one at a time or in groups. In appearance, these are rounded outgrowths similar to elongated papillae or cauliflower. Papillomas on the face are pink or brownish in color.
First, a tiny bump appears on the surface of the skin, similar to a pimple. Gradually it increases in size, growing upward and to the sides. The papilloma reaches up to 3 cm in diameter. Its base is narrower, and its cap is rounded and lumpy.

If in women papilloma on the face causes mainly aesthetic problems, then in men everything is more complicated. The growths are constantly injured during shaving, and this can cause serious inflammation.

A person becomes infected through physical contact with a sick person. This could be hugs, sexual contact, or, for example, through shared towels. From the moment of infection until papillomas appear on the face, it can take from 3 months to a year. Often growths form on the skin after infections, severe stress, hypothermia, during pregnancy, when immunity declines.

Papillomas on the skin of the neck and body (photo)

Papillomas can appear on any part of the body. Their location depends on gender, route of infection and type of HPV. Some types of the virus cause warts to appear mainly on the genitals, others on the body. In men, papillomas most often appear in the armpits, on the sides of the body and on the neck. In women, they occur on the breasts, under the breasts, on the nipples and in the armpits. But growths can also appear on other parts of the body: on the stomach, back, thighs.

Papillomas on the body appear on average 3 months after infection. But the virus can nest in the skin for several years, and manifest itself only after the body’s immune defense has fallen.

While the papilloma on the skin of the neck and body is small, it can be confused with goose bumps. But gradually it grows and begins to cause a lot of inconvenience: it clings to clothes, becomes inflamed, and bleeds. In this case, you cannot postpone your visit to the doctor.

Papillomas on the skin of the hands (photo)

Vulgar papillomas or warts often appear on the skin of the hands, which are caused by HPV types 3 and 10. They are transmitted from a sick person to a healthy person and often grow in places where there were minor skin lesions, especially around the nails. It takes approximately 2-6 months from infection to the appearance of warts.

Papillomas on the hands have their own characteristics. They are flatter and do not sit on a narrow stem, but directly on the skin. These are small round formations of a yellowish color with an uneven keratinized surface. They are dense and rough to the touch. Adjacent elements often merge and can affect a large surface area. They are often located on the fingers, palms, and in children, on the knees. This is due to the fact that babies crawl without clothes. Warts appear more often in children than in adults, because their skin is thinner and more susceptible to the virus.

Papillomas on the skin of the feet (photo)

These benign growths on the soles are sometimes called spinules. They cause aching pain and burning when walking and can bring a lot of problems to a person.

The disease is caused by the human papillomavirus, or rather its types 1, 2 and 4. 4-6 weeks after infection, a smooth, light bump appears on the skin. Gradually it increases in size and turns yellow. Its surface becomes heterogeneous, bumpy or villous. The growth is surrounded by a protruding rim. In 30% of cases, papillomas on the sole disappear on their own. Self-healing mainly occurs in young people with strong immunity.
Sometimes plantar papillomas are confused with calluses, which appear from prolonged compression of the feet by shoes. But the skin pattern on the callus remains, and the surface of the plantar wart consists of individual rounded elements.

Removal of skin papillomas

Papillomas are removed when they spoil the appearance, are often injured, become inflamed, or tend to degenerate into a cancerous tumor. The main method of treating papillomas is their removal. But in order for condylomas to never bother you again, you need to undergo a course of treatment:

• Immunostimulating drugs to strengthen the body's defenses (Genferon, Imunofan).
• Antiviral agents. They do not destroy the causative agent of the disease, but only inhibit its growth (Intron-A, Leukinferon).
• Cytotoxic drugs. These drugs cause the death of cells that make up papillomas and condylomas (Indinol). They are used when the rash is very widespread and the larynx and other internal organs are affected. These drugs can cause serious side effects.

But the only effective remedy remains mechanical removal. Modern medicine offers several ways that can do this. Let's look at their features.

1. Surgical removal of papillomas.

   The operation is performed if the size of the papilloma is more than 1 cm or there is a suspicion that the formation contains cancer cells. Often the doctor also excises some healthy tissue. This is necessary to ensure that the growth does not reappear. After removal, a suture is applied. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and takes 10-15 minutes. In this case, the patient does not experience pain.
   In some cases, when the papilloma has a thin stalk, it is cut off with surgical scissors. Then the vessel that fed it with blood is sealed (coagulated) using an electrocoagulator. The area is treated with an antiseptic.

   Disadvantages of the method: a fairly large area of ​​skin is removed. Healing takes a long time, and scars may appear after surgery.

2. Cauterization of papillomas with liquid nitrogen.

   Another name for this method is cryodestruction, that is, destruction by cold. After the tumor (papilloma) has been examined and the analysis has shown that it is benign and there are no altered cells in it, then the operation can begin.

   The doctor touches the papilloma with a cotton swab dipped in liquid nitrogen or a special attachment. Nitrogen temperature -196 degrees. Exposure time 5-20 seconds. The duration of cauterization depends on the size of the papilloma. Upon contact with liquid nitrogen, the water in the cells freezes, turns into ice, and its crystals destroy papillomas.

   The procedure is painless, but if the skin in this area is very sensitive, then it is anesthetized with an injection of novocaine into the sore spot. After treatment with nitrogen, the skin turns white, and gradually a small bubble filled with a clear or pink liquid forms in this area. The surrounding skin turns red and swells. At this stage, a person may experience unpleasant sensations - burning and tingling. But they gradually pass.

   After the procedure, the doctor advises treating the skin with boric alcohol or a solution of potassium permanganate 2 times a day for a week. Cycloferon ointment prevents infection, increases local immunity and reduces the risk of recurrence of papilloma.

   The bubble bursts after 3-4 days and turns into a crust, which protects the wound from damage. Gradually, the top layer falls off and healthy, pink skin remains underneath.

   Disadvantage of the method: if the doctor lightly freezes the diseased area of ​​skin, then papilloma may reappear. Freezing too much damages healthy tissue and causes scarring.

3. Laser removal of papillomas.

   Before removal, an analysis is performed to exclude the presence of cancer cells. The area where the wart or papilloma is located is numbed with lidocaine spray. The patient is asked to put on safety glasses.

   A laser beam is directed at the tumor. One papilloma is affected for no longer than a minute. The laser evaporates the water in diseased cells, which shrink and turn into a crust. After half an hour, the surrounding skin turns red and swells; this is a normal reaction that will go away in a few days.

   The crust disappears on its own after 5-7 days. In its place remains delicate pink skin. Gradually, its color evens out and no trace of papilloma remains at the site of the defect. Complete healing will take about 2 weeks. During this period, you need to protect your skin from direct sunlight. Otherwise, a dark brown spot will appear at the site of the papilloma.

   Cauterization of papillomas with a laser allows you to avoid infection of the wound with microorganisms and seal the vessels. Therefore, bleeding does not occur during or after surgery.

   It is not recommended to wet the crust that has formed at the site of the papilloma and steam it for 3 days. Also, decorative cosmetics should not be applied until complete healing. This will prevent scars from appearing. Treat this area with a solution of potassium permanganate or a healing ointment with an antibiotic (Levomikol), as recommended by a doctor.
   Using a laser, papillomas are removed on the arms, legs, face and genitals.

   Disadvantage of the method: when removing large papillomas with a laser, scars may remain.

4. Electrocoagulation of papillomas.

   This is the removal of tumors using electric current. A special device, an electrocoagulator, allows you to dry the narrow base of the papilloma or the entire wart. After this, the growth is easily separated from the skin. Bleeding from the wound does not occur because the vessels are sealed with current.

   Recovery will take 7-10 days. At this time, it is recommended to treat the crusts with alcohol tincture of calendula 2 times a day. This will help avoid infection. After the crust falls off, a thin pink skin is revealed underneath, which must be protected from injury and direct sunlight.

   The main advantage of this method is that the papilloma can be sent to an oncologist for examination.
   Disadvantages of the method. If it is not enough to treat the area where the papilloma was located, then after a while it may grow again. Removal on sensitive areas (genitals) may be painful.

What is the best way to remove papilloma on the face and body?

Genital papillomas (genital warts)

Causes of genital papillomas (condylomas).

Genital papillomas or genital warts are cone-shaped growths that appear on the internal and external genital organs. They are a sign of a viral infection, which is transmitted mainly through sexual contact.

Infection occurs during sexual contact with a patient who has condylomas on the skin. Intimate relationships with a carrier who has no symptoms of the disease, but releases the virus, are also dangerous. You can “catch” genital warts even if you used a condom. After all, this protective agent does not cover all areas.

All types of sexual contact are dangerous: vaginal, oral and anal. Depending on the type of contact, genital warts may appear on the genitals, in the mouth, and around the anus.

The causative agent of the disease is human papillomavirus (HPV). It has about 100 varieties that cause different skin lesions. When viruses come into contact with the skin of a healthy person, they penetrate into its basal layer. Before entering a cell, viruses remove their protein coat. Only the viral DNA penetrates into the middle of the cell. If it is not integrated into the chromosome of the nucleus, then the disease does not manifest itself in any way. This happens in people with strong immune systems.

But if the body’s defenses weaken, the viral DNA integrates into the nucleus. The cell begins to change itself and spread the virus through the membrane. Gradually, this area thickens and grows in the form of a papilla above the surface of the skin. From this growth, the virus spreads outward and can infect other people or be transferred to healthy areas of the skin.

The virus does not penetrate the blood, so condylomas often appear in separate areas and not throughout the body.

Papillomavirus, which causes genital warts.

Some types of human papillomavirus are more dangerous than others. They are called oncogenic. This means that infection with such a pathogen increases the chance of developing cancer.

Oncogenic viruses are divided into two subgroups:

• low oncogenic risk - this includes HPV genotypes 6, 11, 42, 43, 44;
• high oncogenic risk HPV – HPV genotypes 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59 and 68.

Oncogenic viruses behave very actively. They are less treatable, remain in the body longer and rarely disappear on their own. If infection occurs, it means that in 1-6 months characteristic small tumors will grow on the skin. Most often they have the appearance of a cone or villi. That's why they are called genital warts. But the most dangerous thing is that genotypes 6, 11, 16 and 18 cause cervical cancer.

Symptoms and what do papillomas on the genitals look like?

Genital papillomas are most often caused by types 6 and 11 of the virus. These growths are also called genital warts.

Anal condylomas

These small growths may appear around the anus. They are light pink or reddish brown in color and small in size, 1-3 mm. They are found in groups and can cover large areas, growing in the shape of a cockscomb.

Condylomas cause itching, irritation and bleeding after injury, for example, with toilet paper.

Condylomas on the penis

In men, genital warts grow on the penis and scrotum. One of the most common areas of condylomas is the coronal sulcus of the penis and the frenulum, less often the head. The appearance of genital warts is easy to detect during external examination. If you notice them, it is better to immediately consult a urologist-andrologist.

The base of condylomas is wider, and the apices are pointed. The growths are painless and soft to the touch. However, they can cause discomfort during intimacy.

At first, one or more tiny growths appear. They grow and new condylomas form around them. If treatment is not started in time, the rash can spread not only to the genitals, but also to the groin folds. This disease can cause penile cancer.

Condylomas on the genital organs in women

Condylomas in women can appear on the labia majora and minora, at the entrance to the vagina, inside it and on the cervix. They often appear as pearly white, wide hairs with a pointed top. At their base, a clear liquid with an unpleasant odor is secreted. After their appearance, the woman experiences itching and discomfort, especially during sex. After sexual intercourse, there may be a slight discharge of blood from the vagina. This indicates that the condylomas have been injured.

If you find these small growths, you need to be examined by a gynecologist. In 2-5% of cases, genital warts on the cervix can cause cancer. Therefore, it is worth visiting a doctor, even if the growths do not cause discomfort.

Condylomas on the tongue

Genital warts on the tongue can also appear after sexual intercourse. These are small single elements or rather large growths. A person feels a growth on the tongue, but does not pay attention, mistaking it for a taste bud.

Such genital warts often appear in women on the mucous membrane of the tongue, lips and on the skin around the mouth. This can significantly spoil your appearance and cause a lot of complexes. Like other forms of rashes, this one requires complex treatment.

Removal of genital papillomas

Preparing for removal

Before choosing a method for removing genital warts, the patient must undergo a series of studies and pass some tests:

• cytological examination;
• a smear from the urethra or cervix;
• laboratory test to determine antibodies to papillomavirus;
• cancer research;
• tests for infectious diseases that are sexually transmitted.

Based on the test results and the degree of development of condylomas, the doctor determines the method of removing the tumors. Of course, the individual wishes of the patient are taken into account.

Before the removal procedure, the skin and mucous membrane of the genital organs are anesthetized with 10% Lidocaine spray or the modern drug Ubestezin.

When papillomas appear on the genitals (genital warts), almost all experts recommend removing them immediately. There are 6 effective methods for removing genital warts.

Surgical removal

U Condylomas are removed using surgical instruments under local anesthesia. This method is used in extreme cases, if the condyloma has grown to a large size or if it needs to be preserved for research. Requires highly qualified doctor and preliminary preparation of the patient. After removal, the doctor stitches it, the skin heals in about a month.

Cauterization with nitrogen or cryodestruction

Impact on condylomas with liquid nitrogen. When a small drop of liquid nitrogen hits a condyloma, it destroys its protein structure. After which the condyloma disappears. A wound remains in its place, which heals in 1-2 weeks. The cauterization procedure with nitrogen does not take much time and does not require special preparation. It can be done under local anesthesia or without it. Without anesthesia, the patient feels pain comparable to that present during deep bikini hair removal. The method is considered inexpensive and effective. It is recommended to use for point (single) manifestations of genital warts. If there are many condylomas, then removal will require several sessions. The method is accessible and widespread not only in private clinics, but also in many clinics. The disadvantage is the possibility of condyloma reappearing if the doctor does not completely cauterize it.

Laser removal

Exposure of condyloma to a focused laser beam for no more than 1 minute. In this case, the growths dry out. The procedure is painless if you numb the skin first. The patient may experience tingling and mild discomfort. Dried crusts remain at the site of the condyloma, which fall off on their own after a few days. Laser coagulation is recommended for use in case of a large number of condylomas or fused elements. This method is highly effective but relatively expensive. In addition, there is a possibility of scars.

Electrocoagulation

Impact on genital warts with electric current. The doctor burns the leg, after which the growth disappears. Thanks to the use of electrical discharges, the vessels are sealed, which prevents bleeding. It is advisable for the patient to undergo superficial anesthesia. Pain occurs as the anesthesia wears off. The recovery process will take about 1-2 weeks. The method is recommended for use in difficult cases or when it is necessary to study condyloma.

Radiosurgery

Treatment of condyloma with radio waves using a special Surgitron device. The mechanism of action is in many ways similar to a laser. Before the operation, the doctor applies superficial anesthesia with a special anesthetic spray. This is the most modern method, its advantages are painlessness and rapid recovery. It also makes it possible to remove all condylomas, even very large ones, in one session. There are no scars left on the skin. But, unfortunately, the equipment is very expensive and is not available in all clinics.

Chemical destruction method

Medicines that contain organic acids and other chemicals are used. They are applied with an applicator only to the surface of condylomas and cauterize them, destroying the cells of the growths. The most commonly used are: Condilin, Solcoderm, Solkovagin. The advantages of the method are its accessibility. No equipment is needed for treatment.

When choosing a method, everything depends on the wishes of the patient and his financial security, as well as the capabilities of the clinic and the qualifications of the doctor.

During the recovery period after removal, it is necessary to keep the genitals clean. Avoid overheating, rubbing and sweating in this area. For the first two days, doctors do not recommend getting wounds wet. 2 times a day, treat the area with a cotton swab dipped in boric alcohol or Hexicon. In the future, it is necessary to wash the genitals 2 times a day and each time after bowel movements. Treatment of the skin with an antiseptic continues for several more days after the crusts fall off.

It is worth remembering that to get rid of condylomas, local removal alone is not enough - it is necessary to undergo a course of immunocorrective therapy.

What is the best way to remove condyloma on the genitals?

1. Removal of papilloma on the penis

   In almost all cases, doctors recommend removing condylomas on the penis. After all, these tumors not only bring discomfort to the patient, but can also cause penile cancer. During sexual intercourse, there is a high probability of HPV infection of the sexual partner.

   Many experts consider laser removal of condylomas the most effective method.

   The removal procedure takes place without anesthesia and does not cause any particular pain. The desired area is simply irrigated with an anesthetic spray. Treat areas from which condylomas have been removed with anti-inflammatory agents. The patient should not have sex until the wounds are completely restored and healed.

   But the laser will be fully effective if the papillomas have not reached large sizes. Otherwise there is a risk of scarring. Large growths are recommended to be removed using the radio wave method.

2. Removal of papilloma on the labia

   There is no fundamental difference in what method is used to remove single condylomas. This can be done with special surgical scissors, and then treat the skin with an antiseptic. If the doctor is qualified, then a good result is guaranteed. Numerous rashes are recommended to be removed with a laser or liquid nitrogen, and an electrocoagulator is used.

3. Removal of papilloma in the vagina

   Removing condylomas on internal organs requires special care. Surgical excision, cauterization with chemicals, or laser coagulation are used. It will not be possible to remove condylomas in the vagina with liquid nitrogen, because it can burn the healthy mucous membrane, and it will take a long time to heal.

4. Removal of cervical papilloma

   If condylomas on the cervix are caused by HPV types 16,18, 31,33,35 and 39, then a cancerous tumor may appear within 5 years. Therefore, doctors unanimously insist on removing these growths. The removal procedure is carried out with a laser, a Surgitron radio wave therapy device, or cauterized with the drug Solkovagin. Some doctors do not recommend using liquid nitrogen on this area. Cryodestruction can lead to the fact that the papilloma decreases in height, but grows in width.

Vaccination against papilloma

Many world-famous medical experts consider vaccination against papillomavirus to be the most effective way to prevent cervical cancer. To date, more than 120 countries in the world have included papilloma vaccinations in the compulsory vaccination calendar. In Russia, vaccination is carried out on a voluntary basis.

The basis of HPV vaccines is the L1 capsid proteins. They create virus-like structures (VLPs) that do not have the genetic material of the virus. That is, VLPs are not infectious. They cannot cause disease. Vaccines create the illusion that the body is already exposed to the virus. The immune system begins to produce protective bodies and thereby prevent the development of real papillomatosis and condylomatosis.

The most popular vaccines against papilloma here and abroad are:

• "Gardasil" from the Dutch manufacturer Merck Sharp & Dohme B.V.
• "Cervarix" from the Belgian company GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals S.A.

Although both of these vaccines are designed to combat HPV, each has a different focus.

Vaccine	HPV types	To whom do they do it?	What is it used for?
Gardasil	6, 11, 16, 18	- girls and boys (9-17 years old) - young women (18-26 years old)	Prevention of genital warts and pathologies of the cervical canal.
Cervarix	16, 18	girls and young women (10-25 years old)	Prevention of cervical cancer. Protection against HPV infection and the development of papillomas, condylomas and warts caused by other types of papillomavirus.

Initially, experts recommended vaccinating only girls aged 9 to 17 years. But recently, the USA, Canada and some EU countries have begun to vaccinate teenage boys. In this way they are trying to protect young people from penile cancer.

Vaccination takes place intramuscularly as an injection in 3 stages: on the appointed day, a month after the first vaccination and six months later. Vaccinations against papillomas are well tolerated.

Until recently, HPV vaccines had only positive reviews. Official data showed that the effectiveness of Cervarix and Gardasil ranges from 70 to 100%, both in the fight against HPV and genital warts, and as a prevention of cervical cancer.

But in mid-2013, the German publication KOPP-Verlag provided some information from the vaccine manufacturers themselves. These data make it clear that the effectiveness of HPV vaccinations is lower than expected. Research on the effectiveness of vaccines against papillomas is still being conducted.

Nonspecific prophylaxis against condylomas and papillomas

Prevention of infection with the human papillomavirus, in addition to the vaccine, also includes other areas. All sexual contacts must be protected with a condom. This reduces the risk of infection by 70%.
If you think that an infection might have occurred, then you can treat the internal and external genitalia with the antiviral agent Epigen-intim.

The disease may not manifest itself even if infection has occurred. This option is possible if a person has strong general and local immunity. Then there is a chance that the virus will leave the body on its own in a year or two. A healthy lifestyle and systematic hardening will help strengthen the body's defenses: contrast showers, swimming and walks in the fresh air.

Avoid hypothermia and situations where you can become infected with the virus through household means. For example, if one of the family members has condylomas on the body, then it is necessary to provide him with a separate towel and washcloth. You should also not use his razor. If condylomas are in the mouth or on the lips, then you should not drink from the same cup with a person. This is especially true for children whose immunity has not yet developed, and they are at high risk of becoming infected.

And in conclusion, let us remind you: be attentive to your health and do not delay treatment. After all, condylomas and papillomas are contagious and you risk passing them on to loved ones.

The majority of the population is a carrier of human papillomaviruses (HPV). Almost every adult has encountered in life such a phenomenon as warts on the body. The disease is successfully eliminated in a short time with the help of medical advances; everyone should know how to easily and quickly get rid of unpleasant growths.

Warts, papillomas, genital warts are symptoms of papillomatosis caused by a virus of various genotypes, of which there are more than a hundred. Depending on the method of infection and the state of the patient’s immunity, the rashes have a different appearance and location.

Most warts on the body do not pose a danger to humans, from an oncological point of view, do not carry the risk of degeneration into malignant formations, and are benign in nature. There are a number of highly oncogenic viruses that, in the absence of adequate treatment, change the function of skin cells, which leads to the formation of pathological processes inside the growth. The process of malignancy occurs over a long period of time; with regular medical examinations and prevention, a specialist will notice and prevent the disease.

In the presence of a virus in the cells of the epidermis, the infection requires a long incubation period to grow, lasting from three weeks to six months. With weakened immunity, the incubation period is shortened; with an active state of immunity, rashes may not appear until the body’s protective function weakens. Immunodeficiency, due to which the virus manifests itself in the form of warts, is formed due to external, internal factors.

External factors

External factors that contribute to decreased immunity and the growth of warts on the body include:

• stressful situations, chronic fatigue, insufficient rest;
• unbalanced diet with a predominance of carbohydrate, refined, high-calorie foods, plentiful meals;
• low physical activity, sedentary lifestyle;
• overweight;
• unprotected sexual intercourse.

You can catch the infection in a household way by using common hygiene items: soap, towels, slippers in public baths, saunas. In public places: transport handrails, railings, door handles.

Internal factors

Internal factors for the appearance of warts on the body that provoke a state of immunodeficiency include:

• hormonal disorders in adolescents during adolescence, in expectant mothers during pregnancy;
• digestive disorders due to diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• endocrine diseases;
• chronic infections, exacerbations, acute course of diseases;
• negligent attitude towards hygiene procedures.

A person with strong immunity can be a carrier of the virus for a long time without having any rashes on the body.

You can become infected through household or sexual contact. When having sexual contact with a carrier of the infection, the probability of infection is more than 85%.

Features of localization and types

There are many types of viral growths, which differ in external signs, type of pathogen, symptoms, and location of spread. Common viral growths include:

• common warts are convex round formations up to 1 cm in diameter, they tend to form in groups, the color ranges from flesh-colored to dark brown, the surface is rough, the skin pattern is deformed;
• flat/juvenile warts are located in the area of ​​the nasolabial triangle, have a light color, group arrangement, smooth, round shape, slightly rise above the surface of healthy skin, have a bumpy surface, appear during a period of unstable hormonal levels;
• plantar are localized on the palms, soles, in the interdigital space, have layers of dry, keratinized skin above them, the surface is uneven, matte with black dotted inclusions. They represent capillaries, the structure is heterogeneous, crystalline, due to the flow of blood and the preservation of the sensitivity of the nerve endings, when pressed the patient feels pain. With unqualified treatment, there is a possibility of infection spreading to healthy areas of the skin;
• genital warts are formed during sexual transmission of the virus and grow in the perineum, anus, and on the mucous membranes of the inner walls of the vagina. In men, the head of the penis is affected, the first signs of infection are discomfort at the site of condyloma growth, swelling increases, the area around the growth may turn red, atypical discharge appears, pain after sexual intercourse in women;
• hanging warts are formations on the stalk through which the growth occurs; the color of the defect ranges from flesh-colored to dark brown. They are red, the lesions are multiple in nature with a tendency to unite into one large spot, in appearance they resemble a cockscomb, there is no pain.

Each type of growth has its own area of ​​distribution. Common warts appear on the extremities and grow on other parts of the body.

Due to autoinfection, when the patient scratches the skin, he spreads the infection to healthy skin.

Juvenile warts are localized on the face and are often found on the hands. Plantars grow on the hands and soles. Genital warts - on the genitals, groin area, hanging - form in the armpits, neck, scalp, stomach, back, eyelids, area around the eyes.

Why does a wart on the body hurt and itch?

Most often, warts that cause itching are located on the body in places where the skin rubs against clothing: collars on the neck, elastic bands from underwear, belts from trousers, shoes, hands. It is easy to injure the scalp with a comb; if a growth appears on the face of men, it is injured with razors. High ultraviolet radiation can activate unwanted processes in the skin, and the growth will begin to hurt.

Is it dangerous to have warts all over the body?

If a person has growths on his body, this condition is not life-threatening, but is a signal of a decrease in the body’s defenses, which can lead to dangerous diseases. Injuries pose a health hazard. A wart on the back, in the hair, in the armpits, or on the neck is easily injured, which can cause a bacterial infection and bleeding. Violation of integrity contributes to the growth of growths over large areas, which is fraught with increased costs for the removal of skin defects and a long rehabilitation period. Experts in the field of dermatology advise that, regardless of why warts appear on any part of the body, they need to be removed without waiting for the consequences of the disease. More often, viral skin defects represent a cosmetic defect.

Which doctor should I see if I have multiple warts?

A dermatologist treats skin problems. It is recommended to make an appointment with him after detecting viral growths on the body. Warts on the abdomen, its lower part, or on the genitals must be shown to a venereologist or gynecologist. There is a possibility that along with the virus, infection with other dangerous sexually transmitted infections occurred.

Therapy for getting rid of warts on the body consists of a complex:

• correction of eating habits, sleep and rest patterns, normalization of the emotional background;
• antiviral therapy to suppress the activity of the virus and its quantity;
• elimination of background diseases that contribute to the development of immunodeficiency;
• strengthening the immune system with the help of preventive measures and medications;
• removal of growths with a laser, liquid nitrogen, diathermo-electrocoagulator, radio knife, scalpel when extensive growths appear.

Doctors do not recommend using traditional medicine or pharmaceutical preparations for home use to remove growths. They are inconvenient to use and do not guarantee results. Before getting rid of warts on the body, it is necessary to consult a specialist in order to notice pathological processes and prevent complications in the form of relapses of the disease, inflammation, scars, cicatrices, and the introduction of a bacterial infection into the wound.

Patients refer to a variety of defects as skin growths. These can be small blisters and papillary outgrowths (papilomas, nevi), rough plaques and compactions (keratosis, cutaneous horn). Knowing what diseases patients call “skin growths” and how often they are treated, I decided to write this article. So that the reader has an idea of ​​what specific disease we are talking about and what danger the patient faces. After all, some of the growths are safe, although they do not look aesthetically pleasing, while others need to be gotten rid of as quickly as possible.

According to my observations, the following are most often hidden under the name “skin growths”:

The most common skin growths are seborrheic keratosis.

Seborrheic keratoses are the most common growths on the skin. The disease develops in people over 35 years of age. Most often, at 45–50 years of age, as a result of impaired differentiation of the basal cells of the epidermis. Common causes are solar radiation and heredity. The development of the disease occurs slowly, with age the size and number of growths increases. The appearance of the formations is extremely diverse. There are many types of seborrheic keratoses. Seborrheic keratosis is considered a benign tumor. But, there is a low probability of formations turning into squamous cell skin cancer. So, it is better to remove large formations. The most suitable method is cryodestruction; it can remove very large growths on the skin without surgery and with minimal scarring. Differential diagnosis is carried out with pigmented nevi, dermatofibroma, melanoma.

Skin growths such as seborrheic keratosis are characterized by the following manifestations:

• A spot of increased pigmentation, from light brown to black, which has clear boundaries, with a diameter of 3 mm to 5 - 6 cm.
• The appearance resembles a plaque or papule with a slightly scaly, bumpy or smooth surface.
• Skin lesions occur more often on the back, chest, less often on the face and neck. The disease does not affect the soles of the palm.
• Skin growths are more often multiple than single.
• Plaques of various shapes that rise above the skin, with a diameter of 0.5 to 4 cm.

A black, dense, rough growth on the skin is a common type of seborrheic keratosis or keratoma.

The photo shows light brown growths on the skin. Many people consider them moles, but this is not so.

Actinic keratosis - yellow growths.

Solar or actinic keratosis is a precancerous disease. It occurs as a result of skin aging and prolonged exposure to sunlight. It is characterized by changes in the skin under the growths with their gradual transformation into malignant ones. The disease occurs in people over 50 years of age. It appears on any part of the body, most often in areas exposed to solar radiation. In contrast to seborrheic keratosis, the growths on the skin are flatter, have a reddish color at the base, and the horny layers have a yellowish tint. Sometimes, formations disappear on their own. Dermatologists divide the forms of actinic keratosis: atrophic, hypertrophic, bowenoid. Specialists carry out differential diagnosis of pathology with basal cell carcinoma, seborrheic wart, disseminated lupus erythematosus.

Symptoms of the disease:

• A flaky, rough, dry spot, slightly protruding above the skin, inflamed.
• Gradual growth of the stratum corneum of the skin in the form of a drop-shaped tubercle or a flat plaque with a yellow tint.
• Over time, the color of the formation changes. The skin at the base is redder, the horny masses are yellower.
• Possible loss of growths, in the future, the formation of a new lesion in the same place.
• The size of the formation in diameter ranges from a few millimeters to 2.5 - 3 cm.
• The skin around the growth is spotted and wrinkled.

Growths on the skin in the form of yellow crusts are a precancerous disease. Actinic keratosis.

Soft fibroma is a growth similar to papilloma. However, much thicker and larger.

People often consider only the most common warts - those on the fingers - to be warts. In addition to these common warts, there are other varieties. Few people know about periungual, plantar and filiform warts. They can well be called growths. All of these growths are caused by the human papillomavirus.

Growths on the skin near the nail.

• A distinctive symptom of periungual warts is:
• The characteristic location of the growths is directly next to the nail or under it.
• Rough, rough surface.
• Flat or plaque-shaped growths.
• There are no clear boundaries.
• Gray or flesh-colored.
• Superficial location or deep penetration under the nail.
• Cause depletion, deformation, and destruction of the nail plate.
• Does not cause pain or itching.

Plantar growths on the skin.

• The disease manifests itself outside the points of support and friction from shoes.
• Pain and discomfort when pressing on the sides of the growth while walking.
• The wart is brown or flesh-colored, with dots in the center.
• Absence of skin pattern on the wart.
• Itching in the area of ​​the wart.
• Spread to the skin that is around the growth.
• Combination of warts and formation of mosaic clusters.

Infection occurs when:

• Direct contact from person to person,
• Walking barefoot in swimming pools and showers;
• Abrasions and cuts on the soles.

Growths on the skin of the body can be filamentous warts.

• The appearance in no way resembles papillomas or thin papillae/
• They are called filamentous because they have spike-like growths on the surface. The base is a dense, flesh-colored scaly plaque. These outgrowths protrude from the base.
• Spiny outgrowths are not always found. Sometimes they are washed off, steamed, and only rough lumps remain on the skin.

Papillomas are common growths on the skin.

Papillomas are papillary growths on the skin. They have a color from light to brown. The disease is caused by a group of papillomaviruses, which are transmitted through household and contact from sick to healthy. When infected, changes occur in the cells, which leads to their proliferation. Locations of growths: facial skin, mucous membranes of the mouth and nose, vocal cords, limbs. The types of papillomas completely depend on the type of virus that provoked them. There are darkish pigmented growths. Dimensions from a millimeter to 1 cm. Different types of papilloma virus manifest themselves in different ways.

Condylomas are growths on the skin in the groin area and anus.

The reason is the same - the papilloma virus. Characteristic smooth or rough growths, ranging in size from one millimeter to 3 cm. They can be single or merged. Localized in the genital and anus areas. In men - near the head and crown of the penis, frenulum. In women, they are located on the labia, clitoris, less often on the cervix, inside the vagina. Growths on the skin in the genital areas during sexual intercourse cause discomfort and complicate the birth process. Multiple proliferation of condylomas is a sign of a weakened immune system. Infection with growths occurs during sexual intercourse with a carrier of the virus, very rarely through household means.

Soft fibroids are large growths on the skin.

Soft skin fibroma - growths on the skin of quite large sizes. They can protrude several millimeters or centimeters above the surface of the skin. A single neoplasm that has clear boundaries. The base is usually somewhat narrowed, widening at the top, and the ends are soft to the touch. Often appears in middle-aged people. Skin growths are painless. When injured, an inflammatory process can develop. The reasons for the development of growths have not been studied, but a characteristic role is played by hereditary factors, hormonal changes, and senile skin changes.

Intradermal nevi are frequent growths on the facial skin.

Intradermal nevi are dense nodules, covered with or without hairs. Usually light flesh-colored or light brown. Very often growths of this type are found on the face and spoil the beauty. In general, pigmented nevi are a group of congenital neoplasms on the skin of a benign nature. It is characterized by an accumulation of cells (nevocytes) in a certain limited area. Often pigmented nevi appear in embryos, and their appearance is observed with age. The typical development of growths throughout life is a gradual transition from flat shapes to increasingly convex ones, and a gradual loss of color. Pigment cells can lie quite deep; the larger the outer growth, the further away these pigment cells are. A dangerous complication of any type of nevus is the transition of the disease to a malignant form, in which the growth gradually turns into melanoma of the skin. However, this is a rare occurrence for this education. When diagnosing, this formation must be distinguished from melanoma, senile warts, and dermatofibroma.

Such growths on the skin appear for the following reasons:

• Hormone level disturbances, hormonal changes.
• Genetic disorders.
• Infections of the urinary and reproductive system.
• Action of toxic substances.

In the photo there is a growth on the skin of the face - an intradermal nevus. It occurs very often and spoils the beauty.

This type of growth turned out to be skin cancer. It can grow relatively quickly and metastasize.

A cutaneous horn is a horny growth on the skin.

Skin growths of this type appear in people over 45 years of age against the background of hormonal changes in the body and its general aging. The skin disease manifests itself as a certain painless, roughened area, which gradually increases, acquiring a conical horn shape. The growth can be single or multiple, yellow or brown in color, and can grow to enormous sizes. The surface of the formation is uneven, covered with jagged scales, with a rounded inflammatory area in the center. It is most often localized in the face area. Horny growths on the skin in most cases eventually develop into squamous cell skin cancer. It is necessary to be treated before it turns into skin cancer, it will be easier and calmer.

Keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma is a malignant growth on the skin.

Squamous cell keratinizing is the second most common malignant tumor of the skin. It begins in the epidermis and progresses to a metastatic tumor. It often begins with keratoacanthoma, actinic keratosis or cutaneous horn. Warts, scars, and chronic ulcers rarely develop. These malignant growths on the skin often have abundant horny masses, which may be accompanied by bloody crusts. At the base of the formation are red plaques with small bleeding tubercles. Skin cancer occurs in people of different age groups, more often in white-skinned and elderly people. It is characterized by a relatively slow course for cancer and penetration into the lymphatic system. Experts distinguish between types of squamous cell carcinoma: nodular, plaque and ulcerative forms.

Malignant growths on the skin develop due to the following reasons:

• Chemical or thermal burns.
• Skin contact with harmful chemicals.
• Exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
• Precancerous skin diseases (cutaneous horn, actinic keratosis and others).

Which doctor should I contact for skin growths?

Early detection and treatment of various types of skin growths largely guarantees the success of a complete cure. Only a doctor can carry out the optimal diagnosis, choose the right method of treatment, and prevent the re-formation of growths on the skin. It is best to contact a dermatologist, oncologist or surgeon.