Soft fibroma (acrochordon): what it is, causes and treatment

Soft fibroma, or acrochordon, is a small mass similar to a wart, which appears most frequently on the neck, armpit and groin, measuring between 2 and 5 mm in diameter, does not cause symptoms and is most often benign. .

The appearance of soft fibroma does not have a well-established cause, but it is believed that its appearance is related to genetic factors and insulin resistance, and can be seen, most of the time, in diabetics and people with metabolic syndrome.

Fibromas can have the same tone as the skin or be a little darker and have a progressive diameter, that is, they can increase over time depending on the person’s conditions. In other words, the greater the insulin resistance, for example, the greater the tendency for fibroid growth.

What causes soft fibroma

The cause of soft fibroma is not yet well defined, however it is believed that the appearance of these lesions is related to genetic and family factors. Furthermore, some studies demonstrate the relationship between the appearance of soft fibroids, diabetes and metabolic syndrome, and soft fibroids may also be correlated with insulin resistance.

Soft fibromas tend to appear more frequently in people over 30 years of age who have a family history of soft fibroids or who have hypertension, obesity, diabetes and/or metabolic syndrome, in addition to being more likely to develop during pregnancy and cell carcinoma. basal.

The wart-like lesions of these fibroids can grow quickly and tend to appear more frequently in the groin, eyelids, armpits and neck. Learn about other causes of warts on the neck.

Which doctor to consult

The best doctor to evaluate soft fibroids and advise on the best form of treatment is a dermatologist.

How the treatment is carried out

In most cases, soft fibroids do not pose any risk to the person, do not cause symptoms and are benign, meaning no specific procedure is required. However, many people complain about fibroids due to aesthetics and go to the dermatologist for removal.

Soft fibroma removal is carried out in the dermatological office using different techniques according to the characteristics and location of the fibroma. In the case of small fibromas, the dermatologist may choose to perform a simple excision, in which the fibroma is removed with the help of a dermatological instrument, cryosurgery, in which the soft fibroma is frozen, which after a while ends for falling. Understand how cryotherapy is performed.

On the other hand, in the case of large fibromas, it may be necessary to carry out a more extensive surgical procedure to completely remove the soft fibroma and, in these cases, it is important that the person takes some care after the procedure, and it is recommended to rest and eat foods that promote healing and improve the immune system. Find out what care is required after surgery.