A papilloma is a benign skin growth 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 pose a threat of cell malignancy, which increases sharply when the tumor is injured.
What causes papillomas?
The reason is that the papillomavirus enters the body. It causes the epithelial cells to grow too fast, which looks like a small tumor. Growths can be single or multiple.
The main cause of papillomas is HPV (human papilloma virus). Suspected factors are reduced immunity, hormonal imbalance, pregnancy, harmful working and living conditions.
This virus is very common. About 90% of all people on earth are its carriers 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 suffer from other pathologies. Papillomas and warts can appear during prolonged work in hazardous industries or in dusty premises. 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);
- Disturbance of the gastrointestinal tract;
- Allergic reactions of the body.
What causes the appearance of papillomas 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 appear, especially if your immune system is weak and there is a hormonal imbalance.
For the same reason, growths appear under the armpits, under the breasts in plump women, in skin and fat folds. In this case, older people more often develop keratomas - flat neoplasms provoked by the same papillomavirus.
Why do papillomas appear in women?
In women, the probability of developing papillomas increases not only with a decrease in the level of immunity, but also with a hormonal imbalance. This can happen as a result of frequent stress, depression, overeating and weight gain. It is possible that papillomas appear after long-term use of oral contraceptives, as well as after hormonal therapy.
There is a possibility of transmission of the virus by inheritance. This is especially true for the virus that causes the development of genital warts.
Why do papillomas appear in men?
In men, papillomas most often appear in the genital area, anus and armpits. He has growths on his hands and face. The reasons are bad habits and unprotected intercourse. People with non-traditional sexual orientation are particularly affected by neoplasms in the lower parts of the body. The virus is transmitted to them from the 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 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 aged six months to a year and a half, outgrowths appear on the hands and knees. The reason for this is the constant friction of the skin when crawling and falling. The virus penetrates through the skin and develops rapidly against the background 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 the high humidity, which favors the spread of the virus. Infection due to reduced immunity in this case is also possible if the child is often sick and does not observe hygiene standards: he bites his nails, rarely washes his hands, tears off scabs from 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. He himself not only contributes to the appearance of tumors that can turn into cancer, but also disrupts the functioning of the entire organism. Therefore, if there is a wart on the body or many papillomas appear, you should 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 personal consultation with a professional physician. For diagnostics, diagnostics and treatment, contact qualified doctors!