Cutaneous fibropapillomas, are small, benign skin growths that usually appear in areas where there is frequent rubbing or friction, such as the neck, armpits, eyelids, groin, or under the breasts.
WHAT DO THEY LOOK LIKE?
Typically, these small lumps are:
- Soft to the touch
- Same color as the skin or slightly darker
- Rounded or elongated in shape
- Painless, although they can become irritated by rubbing
- In most cases, fibropapillomas are small in size, although some can grow to a few millimeters in length.
These growths are noncancerous and generally pose no health risk. However, if one changes color, bleeds, or grows rapidly, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist for further evaluation.
WHY DO THEY APPEAR?
There is no known single cause, but several factors may influence its appearance:
- Constant friction on the skin
- Genetic factors
- Hormonal changes
- Overweight or obesity
- Type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance
- In some people, fibropapillomas tend to appear more frequently as they age.
CAN THEY BE DELETED?
While it’s not necessary to remove them for medical reasons, many people choose to do so for cosmetic reasons or because of discomfort. This decision should be made with medical advice. Available methods include:
- Cauterization (use of heat)
- Cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen)
- Surgical excision
It is important to avoid home attempts to remove them, as they can cause infection, bleeding, or scarring.
Fibropapillomas are common, benign skin conditions that rarely cause complications. Although they don’t require treatment, they can be safely removed if they become bothersome. As always, it’s advisable to consult a specialist for a proper diagnosis and to learn about the available options.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.
