What is the difference between skin tags and filiform warts?

Written by Huang Ling Juan

Dermatology

Updated on September 18, 2024

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Skin tags and filiform warts are clearly distinct.

Clinically, skin tags are a type of soft external appearance, a skin soft fibroma, non-infectious, and somewhat hereditary; on the other hand, filiform warts are caused by a viral infection, offering a raised, smooth growth on the skin surface, and are somewhat infectious.

The causes of each are different: filiform warts are due to human papillomavirus infections and commonly occur on the face and neck; whereas skin tags are mainly caused by skin aging.

Treatment for filiform warts typically involves the use of lasers or cryotherapy, while skin tags may also be removed surgically or treated effectively with liquid nitrogen cryotherapy.

Thus, there are differences in both the causes and clinical presentations of the two.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan

Dermatology

46sec

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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 Zhang Jing

Dermatology Department

1min 17sec

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The difference between skin tags and filiform warts

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 Liu Gang

Dermatology

1min 1sec

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Will filiform warts grow back after removal?

Filiform warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. This disease is characterized by strong contagiosity and recursivity, with many cases likely experiencing recurrence after the initial treatment. The recurrence period varies; depending on individual immune strength, recurrences may occur about every half a month to one month. Once recurrence happens, it is necessary to treat again and remove the newly appeared warts. Some people may experience repeated recurrences and require multiple treatments to be completely cured. During the treatment period, interferon can be applied topically to prevent excessive viral proliferation. During the treatment period, it is also important to follow a proper diet and lifestyle habits. Bath sponges and towels should be used separately from other family members to prevent cross-contamination. Used items should be sun-dried and disinfected, and it is beneficial to eat foods that clear heat and reduce internal heat.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan

Dermatology

59sec

home-news-image

What is the difference between skin tags and filiform warts?

Skin tags and filiform warts are clearly distinct. Clinically, skin tags are a type of soft external appearance, a skin soft fibroma, non-infectious, and somewhat hereditary; on the other hand, filiform warts are caused by a viral infection, offering a raised, smooth growth on the skin surface, and are somewhat infectious. The causes of each are different: filiform warts are due to human papillomavirus infections and commonly occur on the face and neck; whereas skin tags are mainly caused by skin aging. Treatment for filiform warts typically involves the use of lasers or cryotherapy, while skin tags may also be removed surgically or treated effectively with liquid nitrogen cryotherapy. Thus, there are differences in both the causes and clinical presentations of the two.

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Written by Liu Gang

Dermatology

54sec

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Can filamentous warts be cut off by oneself?

Filiform warts are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus and are contagious and prone to recurrence. It is advised not to use scissors to cut them off yourself, because the roots of the filiform warts may still be attached to the skin and remain contagious. The best treatment for filiform warts is to go to a regular hospital's dermatology department and have them removed with a laser. Afterwards, apply interferon spray topically to effectively prevent recurrence. It is also important to avoid spicy and irritating foods, refrain from staying up late, and frequently sun and disinfect bath towels and scrubbing cloths. Do not share these items with family members to avoid infecting them. If you develop this condition, it is advisable to seek treatment promptly when the warts are small or few in number, otherwise, they could proliferate on your body, potentially appearing on the neck, armpits, and groin.