Papillomas
A papilloma is a usually benign tumor of the skin or mucous membranes that grows outwardly in finger-like protrusions. It is frequently used to refer to infections caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can cause papillomas of the skin, genitals, mouth, eyes and throat, and, in some women, cervical cancer.
Papillomas can form throughout the body. Warts, which are papillomas on the skin, can be found on the hands, feet and knees. The nose, brain, genitals, conjunctiva of the eye, and female breast ducts can also be affected by papillomas.
Causes of Papillomas
The majority of papillomas, including skin warts and genital warts, are caused by HPVs, of which there are more than 150 types. Skin warts caused by HPV are not easily spread from person to person, but genital warts caused by HPV can easily be transmitted through sexual contact.
Not all papillomas are caused by viruses. Nasal papilloma may be the result of a tissue injury. And some papillomas, including intraductal papilloma and choroid plexus papilloma, do not have known causes.
Types of Papillomas
There are a number of types of papillomas, the symptoms of which vary depending on where in/on the body they manifest themselves. Types of papillomas include:
Cutaneous Papilloma
Cutaneous (skin) papillomas are usually referred to as warts, and they may or may not be painful. Warts can grow singly or in clusters, and can be raised or flat, rough or smooth.
Genital Papilloma
Genital HPV infection is extremely common, and most often asymptomatic; many people carry HPV without realizing it. In women, genital papillomas can affect the vagina, vulva, cervix and anus; in men, they can affect the penis, scrotum and anus.
Intraductal Papilloma
Intraductal papillomas are benign tumors that grow within the breast ducts, near the nipple. They are wart-like in appearance, and composed of gland tissue and fibrovascular tissue, which is a combination of fibrous tissue and blood vessels. A common cause of clear or bloody nipple discharge, they do not increase a woman's risk of getting breast cancer.
Nasal Papilloma
Nasal papillomas grow inside the nose, usually on the side next to the cheek. Nasal papillomas often bleed, and can grow large enough to affect the sense of smell.
Recurrent Respiratory Papilloma
Recurrent respiratory papillomas, which occur rarely, originate in the throat, larynx and lungs, which are part of the respiratory tract. Symptoms can include hoarseness, difficulty in speaking or swallowing, and a chronic cough.
Choroid Plexus Papillomas
Choroid plexus papillomas, which are rare and slow-growing, originate in the brain. Although benign, because they can increase intracranial pressure and cause fluid to build up in the brain, they can be life-threatening, and require immediate medical care.
Treatment for Papillomas
Some types of papillomas disappear on their own, negating the need for treatment. If treatment is needed, it varies depending on the papilloma's type, size and location. Skin and genital warts may be treated with the following:
- Topical medications
- Cryotherapy
- Laser surgery
- Surgical removal
Surgical removal is the primary treatment for papillomas of the brain, breast ducts and respiratory tract.