Fibroma, Skin Tags | Are they skin cancer? Is there a direct relationship with warts?

The small bumps under the armpit are itchy, but are they skin tags or warts? It is commonly believed that skin tags are equivalent to warts, but is it true? According to dermatologist Dr. Joyce W. S. Tang, the answer is “no.” Fibroma, skin tags, and warts are three different skin issues with distinct characteristics and appearances. Dr. Tang teaches you how to differentiate between them!

What are their different characteristics and appearances?

Fibroma and skin tags are more common. Fibroma is most likely congenital and can be a single bump, referred to as a mole or Fibroma. However, it is flesh-colored rather than brown, approximately 4mm to 7mm in size, and more protruding. If it is a skin tag, it is more prone to being scratched off and commonly occurs in folded areas such as the neck, armpits, or even the creases of the arms or legs. Skin tags are also protruding but smaller, about 2mm to 3mm in size. Certain groups of people, such as obese individuals or diabetes patients, are more likely to develop skin tags. However, both fibroma and skin tags are benign.

Can Fibroma or skin tags be life-threatening?

If you have a skin bumps, it is important to understand the nature of the skin condition because some bumps may not be ordinary skin tags or fibroma. For example, some skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma can resemble acne with a slight reddish hue and a slightly flesh-colored appearance. Dermatologists usually assess the situation and determine whether a patient needs a biopsy to check for skin cancer. If the doctor believes it is just a common skin tag or wart, a biopsy is not necessary. Another alternative treatments, such as cryotherapy or Electrosurgery, can be recommended. Cauterization involves heating and scraping off the protruding skin tag, and it causes smaller wounds. Additionally, if the doctor deems the skin bump to be insignificant, with only a small amount of protrusion and no discomfort for the patient, observation is usually sufficient.

Resemble acne with a slight reddish hue and a slightly flesh-colored appearance.

Basal cell carcinoma

Can fibroma be self-diagnosed for treatment or removal?

Self-diagnosing skin bumps can be difficult because some bumps may not have symptoms, pain, or wounds, and they could potentially be skin cancer or basal cell carcinoma. Therefore, it is best to consult a doctor.

Fibroma or Skin Tags and Warts

Fibroma, skin tags, and warts are three different skin issues. Warts are viral skin diseases caused by HPV (Human Papillomavirus). HPV can affect the skin and cause the appearance of bumps with various colors, such as skin-colored warts. Skin tags or fibroma are generally larger in size and fewer in number, usually one or a few. Therefore, many people confuse warts with fibroma or skin tags.