White Flesh Warts Under Eyes and Nose: Causes and Treatments

White flesh-colored warts located on the wings of the nose and beneath the eyes?

I have been experiencing small, painless, and itchy white flesh-colored growths under my eye bags and around my nostrils for a long time.
I previously visited a dermatologist who advised me to reduce sun exposure, but that did not help.
Later, I was prescribed some alpha hydroxy acid creams, which caused pain and peeling, but did not improve the condition.
Recently, I heard that if left untreated, these growths could spread, and I also heard that staying up late might be a cause.
Could you please explain what causes these growths, what treatment options are available, whether they can be completely cured, how much it might cost, and if there is any coverage under health insurance?

juping, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2000/09/07

Dr. Jin Lianchun reply Dermatology

Dr.
Jin Lian-Chun from Pingtung Hospital's Dermatology Department responds: Hello, Miss.
Based on your description, there are several possible diagnoses: 1.
Eccrine poroma: This is a benign proliferation of sweat gland ducts related to genetics, which can be treated with laser therapy.
It is covered by health insurance, and while treatment can be effective, there is a possibility of recurrence after several years.
2.
Actinic keratosis caused by sun damage: It is important to use sun protection, apply sunscreen, and treat with retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids, which may take some time to show improvement.
3.
Skin tags: These are related to individual predisposition and can be treated with cryotherapy or laser treatment.
Skin conditions should be accurately assessed by a dermatologist in person.

Reply Date: 2000/09/07

More Info

The white flesh warts you are experiencing under your eyes and around your nose are likely a form of benign skin growths known as seborrheic keratosis or possibly milia. These growths are generally harmless and do not cause pain or itching, which aligns with your description. They can appear as small, raised, white, or flesh-colored bumps on the skin.

Causes
1. Seborrheic Keratosis: This is a common skin condition that manifests as non-cancerous, wart-like growths. They are often associated with aging and can appear anywhere on the body, including the face. The exact cause is not well understood, but genetics and sun exposure are believed to play significant roles.

2. Milia: These are small cysts that form when keratin becomes trapped beneath the surface of the skin. They are often seen in newborns but can occur in individuals of any age. Milia are typically small, white, and painless.

3. Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to various skin changes, including the development of growths like seborrheic keratosis. While your dermatologist advised you to limit sun exposure, it is essential to use sunscreen regularly to protect your skin.

4. Lifestyle Factors: While there is no direct correlation between staying up late and the formation of these growths, poor sleep can affect overall skin health. Stress and lack of sleep can lead to skin issues, but they are not direct causes of warts or keratosis.

Treatments
1. Topical Treatments: You mentioned using alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which can help exfoliate the skin and may improve the appearance of some skin lesions. However, they may not be effective for all types of growths, and irritation can occur, leading to peeling.

2. Cryotherapy: This treatment involves freezing the growths with liquid nitrogen, causing them to fall off. It is a common and effective method for removing seborrheic keratosis.

3. Electrosurgery: This technique uses electrical currents to remove growths. It is effective for various skin lesions, including warts.

4. Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can target specific areas and are effective for removing unwanted skin growths with minimal damage to surrounding tissue.

5. Surgical Excision: In some cases, a dermatologist may recommend surgically removing the growths, especially if they are bothersome or changing in appearance.

Cost and Insurance
The cost of treatment can vary widely depending on the method used and your location. Generally, cryotherapy and electrosurgery are less expensive than laser treatments. It is advisable to check with your health insurance provider regarding coverage for dermatological procedures, as many insurance plans may cover medically necessary treatments but not cosmetic ones.

Conclusion
While these white flesh warts are typically benign, it is essential to consult with a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your specific condition. If the growths are bothersome or changing, seeking treatment can help improve your skin's appearance and alleviate any concerns you may have. Regular follow-ups with your dermatologist can also help monitor any changes in your skin condition.

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