Chain-Like Skin Tags on the Neck: Causes and Treatments

Small flesh-colored warts in a chain-like pattern on the neck?

It seems to be hereditary; my daughter had them since she was young, and I only discovered them about ten years ago.
They all appear in the same location, forming a long chain around the neck from the right side to the back, measuring 3-4 inches, with varying sizes of skin tags.
The smaller ones are like heat rash, while the larger ones grow slightly bigger than a grain of rice and then stop growing in width, taking on a teardrop shape with a thinner top and a rounder bottom, colored a slightly darker flesh tone.
Most of them are painless and itch-free, but sometimes they can be itchy, and they can hurt when rubbed against a collar.
My daughter had them surgically removed when she was young, leaving white scars, but they grew back a few years later.
Recently, I visited a doctor at the Veterans General Hospital, who only used scissors to cut off the skin tags, but I doubt that this will eliminate them completely.
Lately, my skin tags have been itchy, and I am considering treatment.
If burning or cutting does not provide a permanent solution, are there other methods available? I prefer options that are less painful, as I am very afraid of pain.
Also, could these skin tags lead to other health issues? I sincerely request your response.
Thank you, Chen Xinglian.

Chen, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/11/03

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology

Hello! Based on your description, your condition and your daughter's condition appear to be different.
Your daughter's condition resembles a type of mole, while your condition may be a soft fibroma.
Treatment options include excision, electrosurgery, cryotherapy, or laser therapy, all of which may involve some degree of pain, and the latter two options may require out-of-pocket expenses.
Wishing you and your family health and happiness.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Li-Chen, Dermatology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2002/11/03

More Info

Understanding chain-like skin tags on the neck can be quite perplexing, especially when they have been present for a long time and seem to be hereditary. Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, are benign growths that often appear in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, and groin. They are typically flesh-colored or slightly darker and can vary in size. While they are generally harmless, their presence can be bothersome, especially if they become itchy or painful due to friction from clothing.

Causes of Skin Tags
The exact cause of skin tags is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to their development:
1. Genetics: As you mentioned, there seems to be a hereditary component, as skin tags often run in families. If your daughter had them, it is possible that genetic predisposition plays a role.

2. Friction: Skin tags commonly develop in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing. This friction can stimulate the growth of skin tags.

3. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during pregnancy or with certain endocrine disorders, may also contribute to the formation of skin tags.

4. Obesity: Being overweight can increase the likelihood of developing skin tags due to increased friction in skin folds.

5. Age: Skin tags are more common in older adults, likely due to cumulative exposure to friction and other factors over time.

Treatment Options
While skin tags are not harmful, many people seek treatment for cosmetic reasons or due to discomfort. Here are some common treatment options:
1. Surgical Excision: This is a straightforward method where a healthcare provider cuts off the skin tag with a scalpel or scissors. This method is quick and effective but may leave a small scar.

2. Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the skin tag with liquid nitrogen. It causes the tag to fall off after a few days. This method is generally well-tolerated and can be effective for small to medium-sized tags.

3. Electrosurgery: This technique uses electrical currents to burn off the skin tag. It is effective but may cause some discomfort during the procedure.

4. Ligation: This method involves tying off the skin tag at its base with a suture or a special device to cut off its blood supply, causing it to fall off over time.

5. Topical Treatments: Some over-the-counter products claim to remove skin tags, but their effectiveness can vary, and they may not be as reliable as professional treatments.

Concerns About Recurrence and Other Health Issues
It is understandable to be concerned about the recurrence of skin tags after treatment. Unfortunately, skin tags can reappear, especially if the underlying factors (like friction or genetics) remain unchanged. However, skin tags themselves are not known to lead to other health issues or malignancies. They are benign and do not typically indicate any underlying health problems.

If you are experiencing itching or discomfort, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. They can assess your skin tags and recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your preferences and pain tolerance. Additionally, if you have concerns about the appearance of scars from previous treatments, a dermatologist can provide guidance on minimizing scarring and discuss potential options for scar management.

Conclusion
In summary, while skin tags can be bothersome, they are generally harmless. Understanding their causes can help in managing and preventing their occurrence. If you are considering treatment, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice and options that align with your comfort level regarding pain and cosmetic outcomes.

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