Skin tags and genital warts are types of growths that occur on the skin. According to MedlinePlus, skin tags are typically benign skin growths while genital warts are growths that are sexually transmitted.
Symptoms
A skin tag is a growth that contains a narrow stalk and is usually painless, MedlinePlus says. It can be darker than your skin and is usually found in your armpits, neck or body folds. Genital warts are flesh-colored, raised growths on the anus or genitals and can also resemble cauliflower.
Cause
Skin tags are the result of friction against your skin. This occurs especially when you are obese and have many skin folds. Genital warts occur as a result of the human papillomavirus.
Complications
MedlinePlus indicates that there are no complications of skin tags. Genital warts, however, can increase your risk of developing cervical and vulvar cancer.
Treatment
Skin tags do not typically need treatment, but they can be removed surgically, by freezing or by electrically burning them if you don't like how they look. Medications and surgery can treat genital warts. Like skin tags, you can also freeze or electrically burn a wart.
Other Names
According to Medline Plus, skin tags are also called acrochordons and fibroepithelial polyps. Genital warts are also called penile warts, venereal warts and condylomata acuminata.
