A papilloma is a benign growth on the skin that occurs due to the introduction of the human papilloma virus into the body. It occurs in representatives of all age groups and both sexes. Despite its benign nature, it can threaten cell malignancy, which increases sharply when the tumor is injured.
What causes papillomas?
The reason is that the papillomavirus enters the body. It causes epithelial cells to grow too fast, which looks like a small tumor. The growths may be single or multiple.
The main cause of papillomas is HPV (human papillomavirus). Presumed factors are reduced immunity, hormonal imbalances, pregnancy, adverse working and living conditions.
This virus is very common. About 90% of the people in the world are its carriers, without knowing it. The carrier often does not grow on the body, but in most cases it is a source of infection for others. With strong immunity, the incubation period of the disease can last for years, but as soon as the immune system fails, warts appear on the body. That is why they mainly affect people who lead an unhealthy lifestyle or suffer from other pathologies. Papillomas and warts can occur during long-term work in hazardous industries or in dusty rooms. People who work with hazardous chemicals are at risk.
Also, the reasons for the development of papillomas can be:
- frequent colds;
- Long-term drug therapy (especially antibiotics);
- disruption of the gastrointestinal tract;
- Allergic reactions of the body.
What causes papillomas to appear in areas of friction?
One of the most common answers to the question why papillomas appear on the neck is friction and injury to the skin. If your skin is suffering from tight clothing or wearing jewelry, growth is likely to occur, especially if your immune system is low and there is a hormonal imbalance.
For the same reason, growth is visible under the armpits, under the breasts in obese women, in skin and fat. In this case, elderly people often develop keratomas - flat neoplasms caused by the same papillomavirus.
Why papillomas appear in women?
For women, the probability of developing papillomas increases, not only with a decrease in the level of immunity, but also with hormonal imbalances. This can happen as a result of frequent stress, depression, overeating and weight gain. Papillomas may appear after long-term use of oral contraceptives, as well as hormonal therapy.
There is a possibility of the virus being transmitted through inheritance. This is especially true for the virus that causes the development of genital warts.
Why papillomas appear in men?
In males, papillomas often occur in the genital area, anus, and armpits. There is growth on the hands and face. Bad habits and unprotected intercourse are the causes. Neoplasms especially affect people of non-traditional sexual orientation in the lower areas of the body. The virus is transmitted to them from their partner during friction. In this case, neoplasms spread to the inner surface of the anus, as well as the oral cavity.
Papillomas during pregnancy
A woman's immune system weakens during pregnancy. At the same time, hormonal balance is lost. This creates a favorable environment for papillomas to appear on the body during pregnancy, even if infection with the virus occurred many years ago. In pregnant women, neoplasms can affect not only the hands, face or genitals, but also the larynx, trachea and other internal organs. If papillomas appear during pregnancy, you should inform your doctor as soon as possible.
Causes of papillomas in children
In children between six months and a year and a half, growth is seen on the hands and knees. The reason for this is the constant rubbing of the skin while crawling and falling. The virus penetrates the skin and develops rapidly against the background of fragile immunity.
In preschool and school-age children, infection often occurs in kindergarten, swimming pool, gymnasium and other public places. This is due to high humidity, which contributes to the spread of the virus. Infection due to reduced immunity is also possible in this case if the child is often sick and does not meet hygiene standards: nail bites, rarely wash hands, tears from scabs on healing wounds, etc.
What to do if papillomas begin to appear
It is important to understand that papilloma itself is the result of the introduction of a virus. Not only does it contribute to the appearance of tumors that may be cancerous, but it also affects the functioning of the entire body. Therefore, if there is a wart on the body or if many papillomas appear, you should immediately seek help from a dermatologist.
Attention!This article is posted for informational purposes only and does not under any circumstances constitute scientific or medical advice and should not act as a substitute for personal consultation with a professional physician. For diagnostics, diagnosis and treatment, contact qualified doctors!