Core Concepts
Skin tags are common, benign growths that can occasionally signal underlying medical conditions if they multiply rapidly or grow excessively.
Abstract
The content discusses skin tags, which are small, fleshy growths that commonly appear on the skin. Key points include:
Skin tags are very common, affecting up to 46% of the US population. They are typically found in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, underarms, groin, and beneath the breasts.
Skin tags are almost always benign and harmless, but can be unsightly and may get snagged on clothing or jewelry, leading to irritation and inflammation.
In rare cases, a sudden increase in the number of skin tags or the development of excessively large skin tags can signal an underlying medical condition, such as polycystic ovary disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or a hormonal disorder called acromegaly.
Skin tags are composed of blood vessels and collagen proteins wrapped in skin. They are connected to the skin's surface by a narrow stalk, which can sometimes twist and cut off the blood supply, causing the tag to turn black or purple and eventually fall off on its own.
The exact reason for skin tag growth is not fully understood, but factors like friction, obesity, and genetics may play a role.
Stats
Up to 46% of the US population has skin tags.
A 30 cm (nearly 1 foot) skin tag was documented on a 56-year-old female.
An 18 cm (7-inch) skin tag was found in a man's armpit.
Quotes
"Skin tags were a common reason for visits to my dermatology office. Besides the unwanted look, the nubs often get snagged on clothing and jewelry, which may lead to inflammation and irritation."
"Skin tags are almost always benign — more meddlesome than worrisome. But if your skin tags suddenly multiply, which is rare, it can signal an underlying medical condition like polycystic ovary disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or acromegaly (a hormonal disorder caused by too much growth hormone)."