Anal skin tags are small, benign growths of excess skin located around the anus. They are a common occurrence and generally do not pose a serious health risk. Individuals often seek information about these tags due to concerns about hygiene, potential discomfort, or their cosmetic appearance.
Understanding Anal Skin Tags
Anal skin tags are small, soft, and typically flesh-colored or slightly darker bumps of skin that form around the anal opening. These growths are benign, meaning they are non-cancerous and usually do not cause pain unless irritated. They can vary in size, from a few millimeters to several centimeters.
They frequently develop after external hemorrhoids heal, leaving stretched skin. Inflammation or trauma to the anal region, such as from chronic constipation, diarrhea, or excessive friction, can also contribute to their formation. While often asymptomatic, reasons for considering removal include difficulties with cleaning, occasional irritation, or cosmetic preferences.
Specialists for Removal
When considering the removal of anal skin tags, consulting with a medical professional is an important first step for accurate diagnosis. A general practitioner or family doctor can provide an initial assessment and refer to a specialist.
For conditions affecting the rectum and anus, proctologists, also known as colorectal surgeons, are the primary specialists. These doctors possess specific expertise in diagnosing and treating anal skin tags and other related conditions. Dermatologists may also be consulted, especially if there is uncertainty about the nature of the skin growth or if it is part of a broader skin condition.
Overview of Removal Procedures
Medical professionals employ several common procedures for removing anal skin tags, often performed in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia. Surgical excision is a frequently used method, involving the precise removal of the skin tag with a scalpel. Depending on the size and location, sutures may be used to close the wound, and the excised tissue can be sent for pathological examination.
Cryotherapy involves freezing the skin tag with liquid nitrogen, causing the tissue to die and fall off over time. This method is often suitable for smaller tags, though larger ones might require multiple treatment sessions. Ligation is another technique where a sterile band is tied around the base of the skin tag, cutting off its blood supply and causing it to wither and detach. Following any procedure, minor discomfort and specific hygiene instructions are common aspects of post-procedure care.
Differentiating from Other Anal Conditions
Accurate medical diagnosis is important because anal skin tags can be mistaken for other conditions affecting the anal area. Hemorrhoids, for instance, are swollen blood vessels, unlike skin tags which are excess skin. Skin tags often remain after hemorrhoids have healed, but active hemorrhoids can be painful and may bleed, distinguishing them from typically painless skin tags.
Anal warts, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), can resemble skin tags but often have a rough, cauliflower-like surface and are contagious. These require different treatment approaches. Anal fissures are small tears in the anal lining that can cause significant pain, particularly during bowel movements, and may sometimes be associated with a “sentinel tag” formed by chronically inflamed tissue. Anal fistulas are abnormal tunnels that connect the anal canal to the skin, often resulting from an infection, and are more serious conditions requiring surgical intervention. Therefore, only a qualified medical professional can accurately distinguish these conditions and recommend the appropriate course of action.