Skin papules are small, solid, raised bumps on the skin that are usually less than 1 centimeter in diameter. They’re a type of skin lesion commonly seen in various types of skin conditions, from allergic reactions to serious illnesses. Papules can appear in a variety of colors, including the color of your skin, reddish, pink, or brown. Unlike some skin conditions, papules don’t contain fluid.
Papules can occur on any part of the body depending on the condition causing them. For instance, acne typically results in papules on the face, chest, and back. Psoriasis, on the other hand, can cause papules anywhere on the body. Papules can sometimes be a sign of a systemic internal disease, which requires medical treatment.
The causes of skin papules range from harmless to severe. One well-known cause is acne, which comes about when your skin’s pores become clogged with sebum, a substance your skin glands produce to moisturize your skin. An allergic reaction to something like a new laundry detergent or body soap can also result in papules. Since they can be an indication of a larger health issue, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional if you notice new or changing skin papules.
Dermatitis herpetiformis, a skin condition linked with celiac disease, can also cause papules. In this case, the papules are typically itchy and are filled with fluid, unlike most types of papules. The skin virus molluscum contagiosum also leads to the formation of papules, in this case very small and shiny ones. Another severe condition that may result in skin papules is neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder that causes tumors to form in the nervous system.
Hidradenitis suppurativa specialists also deal with papules, these being the early signs of this chronic skin disease. Hidradenitis suppurativa occurs when the hair follicles are blocked and cause bumps that look like acne, only they are more painful and will likely worsen over time. In some cases, papules can progress into larger lesions known as nodules. Consulting a hidradenitis suppurativa specialist can help in such situations.
The diagnosis of skin papules involves checking the medical history of the patient and performing a physical examination. The doctor may perform a biopsy, which involves taking a small sample of the skin for testing. The sample is then examined under a microscope to determine the cause of the papules.
The treatment for skin papules largely depends on the underlying cause. If acne is the cause, over-the-counter treatments may be sufficient initially, although prescribed medications may be required if the acne is severe. For conditions like allergic reactions, the best treatment is to avoid the allergen that is causing the reaction. Furthermore, medications like antihistamines can help to control the allergy symptoms.
Alternatively, if a bacterial infection is causing the papules, antibiotics will most likely be prescribed. In the case of molluscum contagiosum, your doctor may recommend a wait-and-see approach if your immune system is otherwise healthy, as most cases clear up on their own.
In conclusion, skin papules are a common skin issue and can occur in a variety of situations and conditions. While most are harmless, some may be a sign of a more serious health issue and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. For those diagnosed with hidradenitis suppurativa, seeking help from a hidradenitis suppurativa specialist can be an ideal action plan.
