Papilloma is a benign growth on the skin that occurs due to the introduction of the human papillomavirus into the body. It occurs in representatives of all age groups and both sexes. Despite its benign nature, it can pose a threat of cellular malignancy, which increases markedly when the tumor is injured.
What causes papillomas?
The reason is that the papillomavirus enters the body. It causes excessively rapid growth of epithelial cells, which looks like a small tumor. Growths can be single or multiple.
The main cause of papillomas is HPV (human papillomavirus). The presumed factors are decreased immunity, hormonal imbalances, pregnancy, harmful working and living conditions.
This virus is very common. About 90% of all people on Earth are carriers of it, without knowing it. The carrier often does not have growths on the body, but in most cases it becomes a source of infection for other people. 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 who suffer from other pathologies. Papillomas and warts can occur during prolonged work in hazardous industries or in dusty rooms. People who work with dangerous chemicals are at risk.
Also, the reasons for the development of papillomas may be:
- Frequent colds;
- Long-term drug therapy (especially antibiotics);
- Disturbance 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 of why papillomas appear on the neck is friction and injury to the skin. If your skin suffers from tight clothing or wearing jewelry, growths are likely to occur, especially if your immune system is low and there is a hormonal imbalance.
For the same reason, growths appear in the armpits, on the breasts in obese women, in the folds of skin and fat. In this case, elderly people more often develop keratomas - flat neoplasms provoked by the same papillomavirus.
Why do papillomas appear in women?
For women, the likelihood of developing papillomas increases not only with a drop in the level of immunity, but also with hormonal imbalances. This can happen as a result of frequent stress, depression, too much nutrition and weight gain. It is possible that papillomas may appear after prolonged use of oral contraceptives, as well as hormonal therapy.
There is a possibility of transmission of the virus by inheritance. This is especially true for the virus that causes genital warts to develop.
Why do papillomas appear in men?
In men, papillomas most often occur in the genital area, anus and armpits. There are growths on the hands and face. The reasons lie in bad habits and unprotected sexual relations. People of non-traditional sexual orientation are especially affected by neoplasms in the lower regions of the body. The virus is transmitted to them by their partner during friction. In this case, neoplasms spread to the inner surface of the anus, as well as to 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 the appearance of papillomas on the body during pregnancy, even if the virus infection 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 aged six months to one and a half years, lumps appear on the hands and knees. The reason for this is the constant friction of the skin when crawling and falling. The virus penetrates the skin and develops rapidly in a context of fragile immunity.
In children of preschool and school age, infection often occurs in kindergarten, swimming pool, gym and other public places. This is due to high humidity, which favors the spread of the virus. Infection due to a decrease in immunity in this case is also possible if the child is often sick and does not comply with hygiene standards: bites his nails, rarely washes his hands, picks off scabs on healing wounds, etc.
What to do if papillomas start to appear
It is important to understand that the papilloma itself is the result of the introduction of a virus. It itself not only contributes to the appearance of tumors that can develop into cancer, but also disrupts the functioning of the entire body. Therefore, if there is a wart on the body or many papillomas appear, immediately seek help from a dermatologist.
Attention!This article is published for informational purposes only and under no circumstances constitutes scientific material or medical advice and should not serve as a substitute for a personal consultation with a professional doctor. For diagnosis, diagnosis and treatment, contact qualified doctors!