The cells of the skin and the underlying tissue can accumulate and cause growth. These growths can be raised or flat. They vary in color from dark brown or black to flesh-colored to red. They can be innate or develop later.
When the growth is under control and the cells do not spread to other parts of the body, the skin tumors (tumors) are benign. If they grow uncontrollably and spread to other tissues or even spread to other areas (metastasize), the tumors are malignant.
Most skin growths are benign (benign, not cancerous). Nevertheless, a doctor should be consulted to rule out skin cancer in case of overgrowth. Benign skin tumors are often a cosmetic rather than a health problem.
causes
The causes of most benign skin tumors are unknown. However, some growths are known to be caused by the following:
- Viruses (e.g. warts )
- Systemic (i.e., whole body) diseases (e.g. xanthelasms or xanthomas caused by excess fat in the blood)
- Genetic predisposition (e.g. seborrheic keratosis )
- Environmental influences (e.g. birthmarks or milia caused by sunlight )
diagnosis
- Examination of the skin
- Sometimes biopsy
Doctors often identify skin tumors through a skin exam.
Some growths are removed and examined microscopically. This procedure is called a biopsy . Depending on the type of growth, further tests can be carried out.
treatment
- Treatment depends on the type of growth.
Some growths on the skin subside if left untreated.
Benign skin tumors that cause discomfort and do not go away on their own can be removed. Some growths are removed with an electric needle or scalpel. Others are removed by laser treatment or icing with liquid nitrogen.