The difference between skin tags and filiform warts

Written by Zhang Jing
Dermatology Department
Updated on September 18, 2024
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Skin tags and filiform warts are two completely different skin conditions. In terms of etiology, skin tags are benign skin tumors, also known as soft fibromas. Filiform warts, on the other hand, are an infectious skin disease caused by human papillomavirus infection. Regarding the location of occurrence, skin tags commonly develop in areas of skin folds such as the neck and armpits. Filiform warts, aside from these areas, can also occur in other locations, such as the face and trunk. Regarding the appearance of the skin lesions, skin tags can be filamentous, but they can also be spherical, and their surface doesn't have any keratinized material, making their texture very soft overall. Filiform warts are filamentous growths with a keratinized surface, making them appear harder and feel rougher to the touch. Both conditions can be treated with lasers. However, since filiform warts are a viral skin disease with some contagiousness, it is important to seek medical advice and laser removal at a hospital as soon as they are discovered.

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Written by Zhang Jing
Dermatology Department
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Are filiform warts an early stage of cancer?

Filiform warts are not cancer; they are caused by a virus, which means they are a viral infection that manifests as a skin disease. The pathogen responsible is the human papillomavirus, making it a benign skin condition. It is also important to note that filiform warts are different from skin tags, and many people confuse the two. In fact, these are two completely different skin conditions: filiform warts are an infectious disease, while skin tags are a benign tumor of the skin. Although both can be treated with lasers, skin tags only affect appearance, whereas filiform warts are contagious and can be transmitted to oneself or others. Therefore, if you find filiform warts, it is best to seek laser treatment at a hospital as soon as possible.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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Do filiform warts itch?

Filiform warts generally do not itch and are caused by an infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which has a certain degree of contagiousness. Filiform warts typically appear in areas such as the neck, armpits, and groin. They do not impact health but can affect appearance. Filiform warts are a special type of common wart. In clinical treatment, the main methods include using carbon dioxide laser treatment or cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen. The occurrence of filiform warts is somewhat related to a decrease in body immunity. If one finds cryotherapy or carbon dioxide laser treatment painful, topical ointments can be an option. Interferon ointments, for instance, can be helpful.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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What are filamentous warts?

Filiform warts are a type of skin disease caused by the human papillomavirus infection, and they belong to a kind of common warts, often seen in women, with a certain degree of contagiosity. They are usually related to a decline in the body’s immune function. For example, in cancer patients or those with HIV where the immune system is compromised, filiform warts can easily occur. The clinical presentation of filiform warts typically includes brown or light brown lesions, some of which match the normal skin tone. They appear as elongated, soft, pedunculated growths and can vary in number from several to several hundred. They generally occur on eyelids, neck, and scalp among other areas. For the treatment of filiform warts, options under medical guidance include using carbon dioxide laser therapy, cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen, or removal through high-frequency electrical ion cauterization.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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What should I do if a filamentous wart breaks?

After a filiform wart breaks, it is important to avoid contact with water to prevent infection. Once a filiform wart is damaged and scabs form, you can visit a dermatology department at a reputable hospital for treatment. Some physical therapy methods used to remove these include liquid nitrogen freezing, carbon dioxide laser treatment, high-frequency ion therapy, and microwave treatment. These methods can effectively remove filiform warts. Recurrence of filiform warts may occur, so it is essential to regularly revisit the hospital for follow-up after treatment. Filiform warts are a type of viral skin infection, which is related to a decline in the body's immune system. Therefore, it is important to rest adequately, avoid staying up late, exercise appropriately to enhance immune function, and maintain a light diet, avoiding spicy and irritating foods.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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What should be noted after laser treatment for filamentous warts?

Filiform warts are caused by papillomavirus infection. This disease is contagious and recurrent. Generally, after laser treatment, there will be small wounds on the treated area. It is important to protect these wounds. Avoid washing with water as much as possible and wait until scabs form before bathing. When bathing, try not to scrub the area with a bath towel. If some warts are not completely removed, scrubbing can cause the virus to spread and lead to recurrent infections. If a recurrence occurs, it is essential to go to the hospital for another laser treatment. Do not wait until the warts have grown significantly before seeking laser treatment. Towels or bath towels that you have used should be sun-dried and disinfected, and used separately from those of other family members to prevent the virus from spreading to them. Regular exercise to boost immunity can also be beneficial in preventing recurrence.