| Skin tag | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Acrochordon, acrochorda, skin polyp, fibroepithelial polyp,[1] fibrovascular papilloma, soft fibroma, fibroma molle |
 | |
| Several acrochorda in the skin of the lower neck, soft consistency, the bottom acrochordon taking a pedunculated shape | |
| Specialty | Dermatology |
Askin tag, oracrochordon (pl.:acrochorda), is a smallbenign tumor that forms primarily in areas where theskin forms creases (or rubs together), such as the neck,armpit andgroin. They may also occur on the face, usually on the eyelids. Though tags up to 13 mm (1⁄2 inch) long have been seen,[2] they are typically the size of a grain of rice. The surface of an acrochordon may be smooth or irregular in appearance and is often raised from the surface of the skin on a fleshy stalk called apeduncle. Microscopically, an acrochordon consists of afibrovascular core, sometimes also withfat cells, covered by an unremarkableepidermis. However, tags may become irritated by shaving, clothing, jewelry oreczema.
Skin tags are thought to occur from skin rubbing against skin, since they are often found in skin creases and folds.[2] Studies have shown existence of low-riskhuman papillomaviruses 6 and 11 in skin tags, hinting at a possible role in theirpathogenesis,[3] although a 2012 study found no association between skin tags and either low- or high-risk HPV.[4] Acrochorda have been reported to have aprevalence of 46% in the general population.[5] Acausalgenetic component is thought to exist.[6] They are also more common in women than in men. Acrochorda were once thought to be associated withcolorectal polyps, but studies have shown no such connection exists.[7] Rarely, they can be associated withBirt–Hogg–Dubé syndrome,acromegaly, orpolycystic ovary syndrome.[8]
Elevatedblood sugar andinsulin is linked to an increased incidence of skin tags through an unknown mechanism.[9]
Removal, if desired or warranted, can be done by adermatologist, ageneral practitioner, or a similarly trained professional who may usecauterization,cryosurgery,excision, laser, orsurgical ligation to remove the acrochorda.[2][10] Varied home remedies are unsupported by medical evidence.[10]