Merck Manual

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Skin Tags

(Acrochordons; Soft Fibromas)

By

Denise M. Aaron

, MD, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine

Reviewed/Revised Sep 2023
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Topic Resources

Skin tags are common, soft, small, flesh-colored or hyperpigmented, pedunculated lesions; there are usually multiple lesions, typically on the neck, axilla, and groin. Multiple skin tags may be associated with insulin resistance.

Skin tags are usually asymptomatic but may be irritating.

General reference

  • 1. Schilling WH, Crook MA: Cutaneous stigmata associated with insulin resistance and increased cardiovascular risk. Int J Dermatol 53(9):1062-1069, 2014. doi: 10.1111/ijd.12463

Treatment of Skin Tags

  • Removal if irritating or unsightly

Irritating or unsightly skin tags can be removed by freezing with liquid nitrogen, light electrodesiccation, or excision with a scalpel or scissors.

Drugs Mentioned In This Article

Drug Name Select Trade
Afrezza, Exubera
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NOTE: This is the Professional Version. CONSUMERS: View Consumer Version
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