Papillomas, often referred to as skin growths or tumors, arise from an infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Among the roughly 200 known types of HPV, approximately 40 can lead to the development of papillomas. This virus can affect individuals of all ages who engage in sexual activity. While papillomas are typically benign, there is a potential risk for them to progress into malignant tumors.
What is Papilloma?
A papilloma is a growth on the skin or mucous membrane that resembles a soft or firm tumor attached to a small stalk, measuring up to one to two centimeters in size. These growths can occur as single or multiple formations and generally do not cause discomfort. However, they may be susceptible to damage if situated in areas frequently in contact with clothing. If there is a notable increase in the number or size of papillomas, or if they are damaged, seeking medical advice is advisable.
The primary cause of papillomas in both women and men is the transmission of the human papillomavirus through unprotected sexual contact. The virus can also be passed from mother to child during childbirth, through skin wounds, or during surgical and cosmetic procedures if proper safety and sterility measures are not followed. In most cases, the immune system naturally handles the presence of the human papillomavirus and does not necessitate specific treatment. However, if symptoms indicative of the virus, such as the presence of growths on the skin or mucous membranes, become apparent, consulting a medical professional is recommended. Several factors can contribute to the emergence of papillomas, including weakened immunity, the presence of sexually transmitted diseases, metabolic disorders, chronic digestive and endocrine system ailments, as well as frequent stress and unhealthy habits. Additionally, hormonal changes during pregnancy can also lead to the development of papillomas.
What do Papillomas Look Like?
Papillomas manifest as wart-like growths on the skin, ranging from one millimeter to two centimeters in size. They can display various colors, ranging from flesh-toned or white to dark brown. The specific appearance of a papilloma depends on its type, which can be categorized as filamentous (elongated, hanging growths on the skin with a thin stalk), warty (rounded formations akin to warts protruding 1-2 mm above the skin’s surface), pointed (found on the genitals and resembling cauliflower), flat (small, smooth, flesh-colored formations extending a few millimeters above the skin), and intraductal (localized within mammary gland ducts, typically detected via ultrasound rather than visual examination).
Treatment of Papilloma With Traditional Medicine
Papillomas most frequently appear on the body, genitals, and mucous membranes. Over time, additional growths may develop near an existing tumor. They can be found on the neck, genitals (in women, on the labia and cervix; in men, on the penis and head), arms and legs (often on the feet), face and eyelids, in the mouth and on the back of the throat, and under the arm.
While traditional medicine offers various methods to address skin tumors, none have been conclusively proven effective for eliminating papillomas. Attempting to remove papillomas with home remedies carries the risk of causing injury, leading to bleeding and inflammation. Consequently, self-medication is not recommended. Instead, seeking the expertise of a gynecologist, proctologist, or urologist, depending on the location of the tumors, is advised for their safe and effective removal.
Though papillomas are typically benign growths, there exists a potential for them to transform into malignant tumors. The most concerning papillomas are associated with HPV types 16 and 18, as their cells have the potential to transition from benign to cancerous. To assess the risk of papilloma progression to cancer, testing for the human papillomavirus is crucial.
Even benign papillomas can lead to complications. If a papilloma is situated in an area subject to constant contact with clothing or is frequently shaved, there is an increased likelihood of damage. Such damage can permit infection to enter the bloodstream. It’s important to note that early intervention and professional medical guidance are crucial for addressing papillomas effectively and safely. In our previous reviews, we talked about the popular in the USA Skin Tag Remover by Clean as Teen. With its help, you can get rid of the problem of papillomas and warts at home.