Skin tags (acrochordon)

Skin | Dermatology | Skin tags (acrochordon) (Disease)


Description

An acrochordon (plural acrochorda), also known as a skin tag, is a benign tumor with irregular surface, light brown color and soft consistency with a small (from millimeters to 1 cm), narrow implant. Skin tags, common in many people, can still be a cause of some embarrassment and even some irritation. An acrochordon, typically appears on the body as a small growth. They usually have the color of the surrounding skin, but can also be of a darker color.

Causes and risk factors

The areas most commonly affected by acrochorda are the neck, the eyes, the groin and the underarms. However, any area where the skin rubs against some other parts of skin or clothing can present these type of growths. The friction is probably the most common cause of the skin tag for most people. Other skin tag causes can include obesity, pregnancy, hormonal imbalance, hereditary causes and possibly problems with sugar metabolism. The acrochorda often develop over time and are therefore more common in middle age. They are usually not dangerous and most often have no underlying cause.

Diagnosis and Treatment

The acrochorda can be removed, but it is quite possible that they will return, unless the underlying cause is addressed. Some people may choose to have them removed because of their appearance, particularly when they are on or near the face. They may also be removed if they are causing irritation, pain or bleeding. The acrochorda may eventually die and fall off if they become twisted; this would normally be preceded by some irritation and possibly bleeding. In most people, however, this does not happen and the skin tags often cause no symptoms at all.

Common methods of removal include cryosurgery, cauterization,excision, or surgical ligation. ...