What is Acrochordon - definition and removal
Acrochordon is a polyp that commonly grows externally from SKIN folds, such as those around the eyelids and on the neck, underarms, and groin. Also called a skin tag or fibroepithelial polyp, an acrochordon is noncancerous and harmless (benign). Doctors do not know what causes acrochordons to develop. Some acrochordons contain one of the HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS (HPV) strains, though others do not. Acrochordons become more common with advanced age, and are most likely to appear in people who are between the ages of 50 and 75. Unlike intestinal polyps, acrochordons do not become cancerous. The dermatologist may remove an acrochordon that is in a location of frequent irritation or cosmetically unacceptable.
See also INTESTINAL POLYP; PLASTIC SURGERY.
