Papilloma is a benign growth on the skin that occurs as a result of the entry of the human papilloma virus into the body. Occurs in representatives of all age groups and both sexes. Despite its benign nature, it can pose a threat of cell malignancy, which increases dramatically when the tumor is injured.
What causes papillomas?
The reason is that the papillomavirus enters the body. It causes excessive growth of epithelial cells, which look like small tumors. Growth can be single or multiple.
The main cause of papilloma is HPV (human papillomavirus). Predisposing factors are decreased immunity, hormonal imbalance, pregnancy, dangerous working and living conditions.
This virus is very common. About 90% of all people on earth are carriers, without knowing it. Carriers usually do not have tumors on the body, but in most cases they become 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);
- Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract;
- Allergic reactions of the body.
What causes papillomas to appear in friction areas?
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 is exposed to tight clothing or wearing jewelry, growth may occur, especially if your immune system is low and there is a hormonal imbalance.
For the same reason, tumors appear under the armpit, under the breast in obese women, on the skin and fat folds. In this case, older people more often develop keratoma - a flat neoplasm provoked by the same papillomavirus.
Why do papillomas appear in women?
For women, the possibility of developing papilloma increases not only with a decrease in the level of immunity, but also with hormonal imbalance. This can happen as a result of frequent stress, depression, overeating and weight gain. It is possible that papillomas may appear after long-term use of oral contraceptives, as well as hormone therapy.
There is a possibility of transmission of the virus through inheritance. This is especially true for viruses that cause the development of genital warts.
Why do papillomas appear in men?
In men, papillomas most often occur in the genital area, anus, and armpits. There are tumors on the hands and face. The reason lies in bad habits and unprotected sex. People of non-traditional sexual orientation are especially affected by neoplasms in the lower part of the body. The virus is transmitted to them from their partners during friction. In this case, the neoplasm spreads to the inner surface of the anus, as well as the oral cavity.
Papilloma during pregnancy
A woman's immune system weakens during pregnancy. At the same time, the hormonal balance is lost. This creates a favorable environment for papillomas to appear on the body during pregnancy, even if the viral 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 papilloma in children
In children aged six months to one and a half years, tumors appear on the hands and knees. The reason is that the skin constantly rubs when crawling and falling. The virus penetrates the skin and develops rapidly against the background of fragile immunity.
In preschool and school-aged children, infections often occur in kindergartens, swimming pools, gyms and other public places. This is due to high humidity, which promotes the spread of the virus. Infection due to decreased immunity in this case is also possible if the child is often sick and does not comply with hygiene standards: biting nails, rarely washing hands, tearing scabs on healed 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 are warts on the body or many papillomas appear, you should immediately seek help from a dermatologist.
Attention!This article is posted for informational purposes only and in no way constitutes scientific material or medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for personal consultation with a professional physician. For diagnostics, diagnosis and treatment, contact a qualified doctor!