Cutaneous skin tags

Alternative names:

acrochordons; skin tags

Treatment:

Treatment is usually not necessary unless the cutaneous tags are irritating or are cosmetically displeasing.

The growths may be surgically removed, or removed by freezing (cryotherapy) or electrically burning off (cautery).

Expectations (prognosis):

Cutaneous tags are benign and usually not bothersome. They may become irritated or be cosmetically displeasing. There is usually no regrowth or scar formation after removal. New cutaneous tags may appear elsewhere on the body.

Complications:

There are usually no complications. Occasionally, irritation and discomfort may occur. The skin tags may be cosmetically unsightly.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if cutaneous tags are present and you want them removed or if the appearance of a cutaneous tag changes.