Treatment
Treatment is usually not necessary unless the cutaneous tags are irritating or are cosmetically displeasing. The growths may be removed by surgery, by freezing (cryotherapy), or by electrical burn (cautery).
Prognosis (Expectations)
Cutaneous tags are generally benign and usually not bothersome. They may become irritated or be cosmetically displeasing. There is usually no regrowth or scar formation after cutaneous tags are removed, although new growths may appear elsewhere on the body.
Complications
There are usually no complications. Occasionally, irritation and discomfort may occur. If cut, they can bleed excessively. The skin tags may be cosmetically unsightly.
Calling Your Health Care Provider
Call your health care provider if you have cutaneous tags and you want them removed, or if the appearance of a cutaneous tag changes.
-
Cutaneous skin tags : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
-
Cutaneous skin tags : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
-
Cutaneous skin tags : Treatment
Review Date : 12/11/2009
Reviewed By : Michael Lehrer, MD, Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network; Linda Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
