Genital Skin Tags vs HPV: Differences, Symptoms, and Treatment

Genital skin tags and HPV are two distinct conditions that can affect the skin. 

Skin tags are benign, soft growths that often appear in skin folds or areas of friction. 

They are typically flesh-colored or slightly darker and are not caused by viruses or infections.

On the contrary, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common infection that causes skin or mucous membrane growths (warts).

Unlike skin tags, genital warts are contagious and are caused by a viral infection.

To learn more about genital skin tags and HPV, read this insightful article. 

Overview:

A quick overview of genital skin tag vs HPV:

What are genital skin tags vs HPV

Following are some of the key differences between genital skin tags and HPV: 

Genital Skin Tags

Genital Skin tags are harmless and do not require treatment unless they cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns.

• These are benign, soft growths that often appear in skin folds or areas of friction, such as the neck, armpits, and groin
• They are typically flesh-colored or slightly darker and are not caused by viruses or infections
• They can be removed through simple procedures if desired

HPV

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) that can affect different parts of the body.

• There are over 100 types of HPV, including strains that cause warts on the hands, feet, face, and genital area
• Genital warts are caused by low-risk strains of HPV, particularly Types 6 and 11
• These warts are typically flesh-colored or slightly darker and can appear in the genital or anal areas
• Unlike skin tags, genital warts are contagious and are caused by a viral infection
• HPV can also cause other health issues, including Cervical Cancer and other cancers of the genitals, head, neck, and throat

Genital skin tag vs HPV symptoms

Recognizing these key symptoms is vital for early detection and prompt medical attention, ensuring better health outcomes.

Genital skin tags symptoms

Genital skin tags typically don’t show symptoms. However, when they do, symptoms can include

• Pain and irritation due to friction with clothing
• Soreness if scratched
• Bleeding if scratched
• Pain if twisted

HPV symptoms

The symptoms of HPV can vary depending on the type of HPV infection. However, most people with HPV do not have any symptoms, and the virus usually goes away on its own. 

• Genital warts: These are flesh-colored or slightly darker bumps that can appear on the genitals, anus, or mouth
• Abnormal Pap Smear: This is a test that checks for changes in the cells of the cervix that could be caused by HPV. An abnormal Pap Smear does not necessarily mean that a person has cancer, but it may indicate the need for further testing

Genital skin tag vs HPV treatment

Here are the primary differences in their treatment:

Genital skin tag

Available treatment for genital skin tag: 

• Cryotherapy: This technique involves the application of liquid nitrogen to the skin tag, causing it to freeze and eventually fall off
• Cauterization: In this procedure, the skin tag is carefully burned off using an electrical current. Cauterization helps seal blood vessels during the process, reducing the risk of bleeding 
• Ligation: This method involves tying a surgical thread tightly around the base of the skin tag. By doing so, blood flow to the skin tag is restricted, leading to its eventual detachment 
• Surgical Removal: For larger or more complex skin tags, surgical removal by a healthcare professional may be recommended. This involves cutting off the skin tag using sterile instruments, ensuring a precise and controlled procedure

HPV treatment

Following are some of the ways to manage HPV: 

• There is no cure for HPV, but some treatments can address the symptoms and prevent complications
• Medication can help reduce the size and number of genital warts
• Regular health checks and monitoring are essential for early detection of any potential complications, such as Cervical Cancer

Genital skin tag and HPV effects on body

Here are the key differences in their effects on the body:

Genital skin tag

Following are the effects of genital skin tags: 

• Genital skin tags are benign growths that are not caused by viruses or infections. They usually appear in areas of skin folds, including the genitals
• They are typically harmless and do not cause any significant effects on the body
• However, they can cause pain, itching, and irritation if they are pulled on or aggravatedGenital skin tags are not contagious and are not a sign of an STI

HPV

Following are the effects of HPV: 

• HPV can cause genital warts, which are contagious and caused by a viral infection. They can cause discomfort, itching, and irritation in the genital area
• Certain strains of HPV can also cause cancer, including Cervical Cancer, anal cancer, and other cancers of the genitals, head, neck, and throat 
• These cancers can have serious effects on the body and require prompt medical attention

Conclusion

With the distinctions between genital skin tags and HPV, individuals can make informed health decisions. 

Genital skin tags, being benign growths unrelated to viruses, are generally harmless, and removal options exist for those seeking cosmetic or comfort considerations.

HPV, a Sexually Transmitted Infection, carries the potential for genital warts and an increased risk of cancer.

Early detection and timely medical attention become paramount in managing HPV-related concerns.

This highlights the importance of regular health check-ups, practicing safe habits, and keeping open communication with healthcare providers for overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

• reviveresearch.org
• cdc.gov
• ncbi.nlm.nih.gov