Papilloma on the elbow: what to do and how to treat?

1. Reasons for appearance
2. What do papillomas on the elbows look like?
3. Treatment options
   1. Medicines
   2. Folk remedies
   3. Removal of papillomas on the elbows

Papillomas on the elbows are skin formations, the growth of which can only be provoked by the human papilloma virus. This type of growth is characterized as benign, but if handled carelessly, the cells can become malignant. Due to their localization in an open area, papillomas are often subject to injury, so if they appear, you should consult a doctor and determine a set of therapeutic measures.

Causes of papillomas on the elbows

Papilloma on the elbow or on any other part of the body is evidence of the presence of the human papillomavirus in the body and its increased activity. It is noteworthy that without HPV infection such growths do not appear. Therefore, if this pathogen is not detected in the blood, then the cause of the growth of skin formations must continue to be sought.

You can become infected with HPV, which causes the formation of papillomas on the elbow, in several ways, namely:

1. Congenital. No, we are not talking about direct genetic inheritance. In this context, infection of the fetus should be understood at the developmental stage in the womb or during the passage of the birth canal.
2. Contact. Any contact with the skin or mucous membranes of an infected person - a kiss, a hug, a handshake - can lead to infection, especially if there is even the slightest damage to the integrity of the integument on the body. Most often, infection occurs during intimacy without using condoms.
3. Domestic. You can also become infected from sick household members if you share hygiene items or things with them, as a result of which papillomas appear on the elbows and other parts of the body.
4. Self-infection. Most often, in the initial stages, the virus manifests itself in one area, but over time a person can transfer the microorganism from the affected areas to healthy tissue.

Once on the skin, the virus penetrates into skin cells and may not manifest itself for a long time. It may take months or even several years before the first papilloma appears. This depends on the health status of the carrier. An increase in pathogen activity is almost always associated with a weakening of the human body and a decrease in its protective mechanisms. Based on this, the reason for the growth of benign skin formations is all those situations that provoke a decrease in immunity.

Common reasons for the growth of papillomas in the elbow and other parts of the body are as follows:

1. Unfavorable environmental conditions. The constantly occurring deterioration of the environmental situation affects the health of every person. Air pollution and water pollution provoke the accumulation of harmful substances in the cells of the body. A dangerous consequence is the development of various diseases, disruption of the functioning of individual organs and systems, including disruption of immune defense.
2. Bad habits. Despite the fact that everyone knows about the dangers of smoking, drinking alcohol and drugs, many still consciously harm their own body. Bad habits gradually provoke a lack of important vitamins and minerals, and subsequently cause serious diseases. In many ways, it is tobacco, alcohol and drugs that are responsible for the decrease in immunity.
3. Poor nutrition. It's no secret that not everything tasty is healthy. Despite the widespread promotion of a healthy lifestyle and nutrition, a large number of people are in no hurry to exclude from their diet their favorite, but very harmful foods, which not only do not supply useful substances, but also provoke disruption of the functioning of the entire body. Eating unhealthy foods leads to the development of gastrointestinal pathologies, diabetes mellitus, pancreatitis, cardiovascular diseases and, of course, decreased immunity, which leads to the formation of papillomas on the elbows, which look very unattractive in the photo.
4. Stress factor. Currently, not only the adult population, but also children are exposed to stress. There are many negative external factors - these include various conflict situations, a busy work schedule, lack of sleep, the use of gadgets, psychological and physical trauma, and domestic quarrels.
5. Long-term treatment with medications. Uncontrolled use of medications, self-medication with the wrong medications, excess dosage - all this causes disturbances in the functioning of the body. Among other things, potent drugs, and not only those belonging to the group of immunosuppressants, can significantly weaken the immune system, opening the way to various infections, including HPV, which results in the appearance of papillomas on the elbows.
6. Various diseases. Here you can note any emerging pathology that can weaken the body, create a deficiency of nutrients, and disrupt the microflora. These can be chronic diseases, for example, diabetes, hepatitis, and acute colds, and much more. HIV plays a major role in the activation of the virus.

The development of growths on the surface of the elbow is observed quite rarely, in contrast to localization on the neck, face, genitals, anus, palms and soles of the feet. However, this does not mean that the area is untouchable for infection. Yes, the skin here is rougher, denser, and drier. There is practically no soft tissue underneath. But the surface is often subject to injuries and microcracks through which the virus penetrates. In this regard, the most common direct cause of the appearance of papilloma on the elbow is direct infection of this particular area.

1. See also the causes of warts on the elbow

What do papillomas on the elbows look like?

Photo of papillomas on the elbows

There are several types of skin lesions caused by the papilloma virus. They all differ from each other in appearance and size. Yes, this or that species has favorite places, and the surface of the skin covering the elbow joint is not included in these lists, however, the photographs of papilloma on the elbow directly prove that, albeit with the lowest frequency, but various types of benign formations caused by HPV, arise here too.

Damage to the integument begins with the formation of single small compactions, invisible during visual inspection. Over time, they increase in size and often grow together. It is noteworthy that the stronger the virus, the higher the viral load and the weaker the body, the larger areas of the skin are covered with these formations.

The color of the growths is flesh-colored from the beginning, but over time it can become pink, burgundy, brown or grayish.

The most common types of papillomas on the elbows:

1. Flat papillomas. They have a round shape. They practically do not protrude beyond the surface of the skin. They cannot always be identified by touch. Their structure is dense and the surface is smooth. The color is beige, yellowish or light brown. Flat growths very often form in groups. Their presence can cause itching, burning, pain, and the development of an inflammatory process in the surrounding tissues.
2. Hanging papillomas. People over the age of 50 are more susceptible to them, although such growths are also observed at an earlier age. Growth begins with the formation of a small compaction. At the next stage, an elongated process appears, resembling a papilla, attached to a thin stalk. Gradually it becomes rougher to the touch, but retains its mobility. Possible shades are flesh, pink, burgundy, brown. The dimensions are small - usually no more than 5 mm. Hanging papillomas are more common on the inside of the arm in the elbow area, because... there the skin is more delicate. If there is a significant deterioration in health, the growths become numerous.
3. Vulgar papillomas. These are dense nodules of benign tissue with a bumpy surface and clear outlines. They rise slightly above the skin level. Often form extensive lesions. The color can be pink, gray, brownish.

The described species are characterized by a low degree of risk of developing an oncological process. However, everything is possible if you ignore the alarming symptoms or damage the growth. The difference between cancer cells is their rapid growth. In this regard, it is necessary to consult a doctor in a timely manner if the papilloma on the elbow is damaged and bleeding begins, if it changes in color or begins to rapidly increase in size, if signs of an inflammatory process appear (swelling, redness, pain, itching).

Methods for treating papillomas on the elbows

Treatment of any pathology should begin with diagnosis and correct diagnosis based on laboratory tests. This also applies to HPV. For a competent doctor, it is important to determine the strain of the virus, the degree of its oncogenicity, and then begin direct treatment. Sometimes you may need to consult a gynecologist, proctologist, infectious disease specialist, surgeon, oncologist or other medical specialist. Typically, a set of measures to combat HPV and papillomas on the elbow includes taking medications and instrumental removal of skin formations. Sometimes the use of folk remedies to strengthen the immune system is allowed. We will tell you about all the options in more detail.

Medications for the treatment of papillomas on the elbows

In the photo there are preparations for papillomas on the elbows

Currently, there is no uniform treatment regimen for HPV. The attending physician prescribes therapy in each case individually, taking into account the clinical picture of the disease and the individual characteristics of each patient.

The basis of treatment is the use of antiviral drugs that suppress the activity of the pathogen, sometimes help reduce the viral load, prevent the spread of infection to healthy tissue and block the pathological growth of benign skin formations.

List of antiviral drugs that have proven themselves in the treatment of various strains of HPV and are often used for the treatment of papillomas on the elbows:

1. Allokin-alpha. The active substance is similar in functionality to interferon. It is not toxic, does not cause mutations, and does not affect reproductive function. Applicable from 12 years of age. Activates killer cells, induces the synthesis of interferons. Injected into the muscle by injection. Price (3 ampoules) - 3700 rubles (1900 hryvnia).
2. Viferon. The active substance is interferon. Suppresses the ability of the virus to reproduce. Strengthens the immune system, increases the specific cytotoxic activity of lymphocytes. In combination with the auxiliary substances included in the composition, the drug has an anti-inflammatory effect, increases the ability of cells to regenerate, thereby slowing down the aging process. Available in the form of ointment, gel and suppositories for rectal administration. The price of medicine in the form of suppositories is from 290 rubles (160 hryvnia).
3. Genferon. The composition includes interferon, taurine and anesthesin. The drug has a systemic antiviral effect, activates recovery processes, is an antioxidant and a mild pain reliever. Restores the production of secretory immunoglobulin A, increases the immune response, and participates in the elimination of pathological foci in the form of papillomas on the elbows. Available in the form of candles. Price - from 600 rubles (from 320 hryvnia).

If the patient has a weak immune system, then the doctor is obliged to select an effective immunostimulant that will help strengthen the immune response. Yes, allokin-alpha, genferon and viferon also function as immunomodulators, but there are other drugs that can be added to the HPV treatment regimen.

Immunomodulators that increase the immune response in the presence of papillomas on the elbows and other parts of the body:

1. Immunomax. Activates various parts of the immune system. Increases resistance to viruses and other infections. Contraindications include age under 12 years and individual intolerance. Price - from 100 rubles (600 hryvnia).
2. Lycopid. Increases the production of interleukins and specific antibodies, promotes the death of skin formations in the form of papillomas. Has contraindications. Price - from 320 rubles (190 hryvnia).

Experienced doctors also recommend including topical external use in complex therapy. They work great on the affected area and have a direct effect. Often their composition is enriched with useful substances that stimulate cellular metabolism and tissue repair, improve the fight against viruses and increase local immunity. Often their functions also include the destruction of papillomas, including those in the elbow bend. Among the widely popular drugs are Solcoderm, Aldara, Epigen, etc.

Do not forget that it is necessary to support the body with a healthy diet. But due to the fact that the quality of products currently leaves much to be desired, it would not be a bad idea to buy some kind of vitamin-mineral complex, again, as prescribed by your doctor. Popular drugs - Perfectil, Vitrum.

Folk remedies for treating papillomas on the elbows

The use of folk remedies is possible in several contexts. First of all, you can support the body by taking infusions and decoctions of herbs to increase your defenses. Secondly, use external cauterizing means at hand to destroy papilloma on the elbow or other areas of the skin. Thirdly, stimulate local skin immunity, relieve inflammation, accelerate tissue regeneration, and moisturize them.

Here are some effective folk remedies for eliminating papilloma on the elbow:

1. Fir oil. For external use. Rub with light massaging movements into the affected area or apply as a compress for 15 minutes. The frequency of use during the day is 4-5 times. Helps increase resistance to the virus.
2. Potato mush. You can take juice from fresh potatoes and apply it as a compress, or grate the root vegetable on a fine grater and again apply the mixture to the papilloma on the elbow. The exposure time is up to 15 minutes, the frequency of procedures is 3 times a day. Potatoes supply the skin with vitamins and promote the destruction of growth.
3. Green tea. It is necessary to use natural leaves without additives. The brew is made quite strong - take 2 teaspoons of tea per 200 ml of boiling water, leave for 10 minutes, soak a cotton pad in it and apply a compress to the affected area. This procedure stimulates the immune system, improves cellular metabolism, improves regeneration and prevents the subsequent proliferation of papilloma tissue.

A distinctive feature of traditional methods is their low effectiveness compared to medications. The duration of treatment for papillomas on the elbow varies from 2-3 weeks to several months. And this is a fairly long period of time during which irreversible changes can occur. Because of this, you should not rely only on available means, so as not to waste precious time and be able to quickly and reliably suppress the virus with the help of medical recommendations.

Instrumental methods for removing papillomas on the elbows

Papillomas on the elbow and other areas of the skin look unattractive, which is why a person first of all wants to get rid of this dermatological defect, without thinking about the presence of the virus in the blood and possible relapses. The best option to achieve your plan is to use the services of instrumental removal of papillomas on the elbows in a hospital or specialized clinic.

The purpose of such methods is the destruction of papillomatous foci, i.e. elimination of external manifestations of the disease. Some are minimally invasive and safer, although their cost is sometimes steep. Others, on the contrary, are considered more radical, although the cost of the procedures is lower.

Options for instrumental removal of papilloma on the elbow:

1. Electrocoagulation. The means of influence is electric current. This method has a high degree of efficiency, therefore it is characterized by a high success rate in removing growths (95%) and an average rate of relapses (up to 65%). Leaves virtually no marks after complete healing. The cost of manipulation is from 1000 rubles in Russia and 300 hryvnia in Ukraine.
2. Laser therapy. Both carbon dioxide and infrared lasers are used. Sometimes the period of tissue restoration lasts up to 4 weeks, but this is provided that a large area is affected and the root of the papilloma is deep on the elbow. Efficiency reaches 92%, and relapses are about 80%. The price starts from 1000 rubles (400 hryvnia).
3. Radio wave surgery. Used only to remove single growths. The means of influence are high-frequency waves. Due to its high efficiency and painlessness, the cost of the procedure is quite high - from 2000 rubles (700 hryvnia) for the elimination of one papilloma.
4. Surgical excision of papillomatous lesions. Relevant for large numbers of growths occupying large areas of skin. Rarely prescribed for the removal of papillomas in the elbow to avoid the need for skin grafts, because During the procedure, healthy tissue can also be excised. The price is relatively low - from 500 rubles in Russia or 300 hryvnia in Ukraine.

In the case of localization of the growth on the surface of the elbow or in the bend of the arm, less traumatic methods should be chosen, because the skin in these areas is thinner and may be less susceptible to restoration, which can lead to a long rehabilitation period.

At the slightest suspicion of the onset of tissue degeneration into malignant tissue, the doctor must conduct a histological examination of the excised growth to confirm or refute the onset of the oncological process.

HPV does not always require immediate treatment, and papillomas on the elbows often do not pose any particular danger, however, this can be confirmed and information about weak viral activity or low oncogenicity can be achieved only after diagnostic procedures and consultation with a doctor.

1. Related article: What types of papillomas are there on the body?