Skin Growths
Skin growths are abnormal formations on the skin that vary in shape, size and colour. Although most are benign and harmless, some may indicate an underlying health issue, or in rare cases, could be precursors to skin cancer. At SkinAccess Clinics, we offer expert diagnosis and treatment for various skin growths, ensuring accurate management and peace of mind for our patients.
What are Skin Growths?
Skin growths refer to any abnormal protrusions or changes in the skin’s texture or appearance. They can be congenital (from birth) or appear over time. The growths may be flat or raised and may appear as bumps, nodules or lesions.
Common skin growths include
Moles (Nevi)
These are pigmented lesions that can vary in size and colour. Most moles are benign, but changes in their appearance can warrant further investigation.
Warts
These are small, rough growths often found on hands, feet and genitals. They are caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
Skin Tags
These are small, soft benign growths that are commonly found on areas where skin rubs against skin or clothes.
Cysts
These are sac-like structures filled with pus, fluid or other material. They can be found anywhere on the body.
Symptoms of Skin Growths
Symptoms associated vary depending on the type and location of the growth. Some common symptoms include
Bumps or Nodules
Raised or protruding growths on the skin.
Colour changes
Colours vary including darker, lighter or uneven pigmentation.
Texture changes
They could be smooth, rough or warty.
Pain or Tenderness
Some growths may cause pain or be tender to the touch.
Itching or Bleeding
Some growths may itch, bleed or become inflamed.
Causes of Skin Growths
The causes of skin growths vary depending on the type
They are generally caused by an accumulation of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) in the skin. They can be congenital or develop over time.
They are caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) which triggers the rapid growth of skin cells.
They often develop in skin folds and areas of friction like eyelids, neck, underarms or groin and may be related to ageing, obesity or hormonal changes.
These are formed by the accumulation of fluid or other materials when a duct or follicle becomes blocked.
Diagnosis of Skin Growths
Diagnosis involved a thorough evaluation by a dermatologist. This may include:
Physical Examination
The doctor assesses the appearance, size, shape and texture of the growth.
Medical History
A review of the patient’s health history is taken to find out any family history of skin conditions or any recent exposures. Also, a history of the condition is ascertained to find out any changes in the growth.
Skin Biopsy
At times, if there is uncertainty about the nature of the growth- benign or malignant, a skin biopsy may be taken and sent for investigation.
Imaging Studies
For more complex or deeper growths, ultrasound or MRI may be required.
Management and Treatment of Skin Growths
Management and treatment of skin growths depend on the type, size, location and nature (symptomatic or potentially malignant) of the growth. At SkinAccess Clinics, we offer a range of treatment options tailored to suit each individual’s needs.
➥ Observation & Monitoring: For benign growths not causing any symptoms or cosmetic concerns, regular monitoring is sufficient.
➥ Topical Treatments: Some types of warts or precancerous lesions may be treated with creams or solutions.
➥ Procedural Treatments:
- Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze off warts and some benign growths.
- Electrosurgery: Electrical currents are used to remove or destroy abnormal skin growths.
- Laser Therapy: Laser technology is used for the targeted removal of specific types of growths like warts or precancerous lesions.
- Surgical Excision: If the growth is large or bothersome or if there is concern about cancer, it may be surgically removed and sent for histopathological examination.