A small, soft bump on the skin, known medically as an acrochordon or skin tag, often causes concern, especially if it appears suddenly or begins to change. These common growths can sometimes look similar to other, more serious skin lesions. The natural worry then arises: Can a skin tag turn into cancer? Understanding the true nature of these growths, and what visual cues differentiate them from malignant lesions, is the first step toward peace of mind.
The Benign Nature of Skin Tags
Skin tags are benign growths resulting from an overgrowth of skin cells; they do not transform into malignancies like melanoma or basal cell carcinoma. They are composed of a loose collection of collagen fibers and blood vessels encased in skin, giving them a soft, flexible texture. A skin tag is attached to the body by a small stalk, or peduncle, making it appear to hang off the skin.
They commonly appear in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, groin, and eyelids. Their formation is linked to friction, genetics, aging, hormonal fluctuations, and conditions involving insulin resistance, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. Nearly half of the general population may develop at least one of these growths, with incidence increasing after age 40.
Differentiating Skin Tags from Cancerous Growths
While a true skin tag is harmless, certain skin cancers can mimic their appearance, making visual distinction important. A skin tag is typically soft, smooth, and easily movable, often matching the surrounding skin tone or appearing only slightly darker. The distinct attachment by a thin stalk, or peduncle, is a hallmark feature of the skin tag.
In contrast, a cancerous growth, such as nodular melanoma or pigmented basal cell carcinoma, exhibits irregular and concerning features. Malignant lesions often have an irregular shape and may feel firm or hard to the touch, lacking the soft, pliable nature of a skin tag. The coloring is frequently uneven, displaying multiple shades of brown, black, red, or blue within the same spot. Unlike a skin tag, a malignant lesion often has borders that are ragged, notched, or poorly defined.
Certain types of skin cancer, like basal cell carcinoma, can initially appear as a pearly bump or a raised, irregular growth. Melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer, can also present as a raised, dark tumor. The difference often lies in the texture and growth pattern; cancerous spots may develop a scaly or crusted surface and usually lack the pedunculated stalk. Any growth that is changing rapidly in size or elevation should raise suspicion, as benign skin tags tend to grow very slowly, if at all.
Urgent Signs Warranting Medical Examination
Any new or changing skin growth should be monitored, as vigilance is the most effective tool for early detection of skin cancer. Changes in an existing spot or the appearance of a new, suspicious lesion are the primary reasons to consult a healthcare professional. A key warning sign is rapid growth over weeks or months, contrasting with the slow or non-existent growth of a benign tag.
Other urgent indicators include spontaneous bleeding without injury, which can signal that the growth has become ulcerated or unstable. A change in texture, where a soft growth becomes firm or hard, or the development of a persistent, non-healing sore is also a serious warning sign. Persistent itching, tenderness, or pain associated with a lesion should prompt an immediate medical examination. These signs, particularly when combined with an irregular shape, uneven borders, or multiple colors, suggest the need for a professional evaluation to rule out malignancy.