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| Papilloma | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Papillomas, papllomata, papillomatous tumo[u]r |
 | |
| Intraductal papilloma of breast,H&E stained, 10× | |
| Specialty | Oncology  |
Apapilloma (pluralpapillomas orpapillomata) (papillo- +-oma) is abenignepithelialtumor[1] growing exophytically (outwardly projecting) innipple-like and oftenfinger-likefronds. In this context,papilla refers to the projection created by the tumor, not a tumor on an already existing papilla (such as the nipple).
When used without context, it frequently refers to infections (squamous cell papilloma) caused by ahuman papillomavirus (HPV), most commonly in the form ofwarts. Human papillomavirus infections are a major cause ofcervical cancer,vulvar cancer,vaginal cancer,penile cancer,anal cancer, andHPV-positiveoropharyngeal cancers.[2][3][4][5][6] Most viral warts are caused by human papillomavirus infection (HPV).[7] There are nearly 200 distinct human papillomaviruses (HPVs),[4] and many typesare carcinogenic.[2][3] There are, however, a number of other conditions that cause papillomas, and in many cases the cause may be uncertain.
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A benign papillomatous tumor is derived fromepithelium, withcauliflower-like projections that arise from themucosal surface. It may appear white or normal-colored. It may bepedunculated or sessile. The typical size range is 1–5 cm. Neither sex is significantly more likely to develop papillomas. The most common site is thepalate–uvula area, followed by tongue and lips. Durations range from weeks to 10 or more years.
Immunoperoxidase stains have identified antigens of the human papillomavirus (HPV) types 6 and 11 in approximately 50% of cases ofsquamous cell papilloma.[8]
There is no evidence that papilloma tissue is itselfpremalignant, despite HPV's frequent connection to later development of cancers.[citation needed]
Other conditions which may present similar symptoms (and which are also caused by HPV infections) include:
Differentiation is done accurately bymicroscopic examination.
With conservative surgical excision, recurrence is rare.[citation needed]
