Irritated Skin Tag in the Armpit Successfully Removed: A Case Study from Village Dermatology
by: Dr. Ashley Baldree
Understanding Skin Tags and When They Need Treatment
Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are among the most common benign skin growths seen in dermatology practices. While they are harmless and non-cancerous, skin tags can become irritated, painful, or bothersome when they rub against clothing, jewelry, or skin folds. At Village Dermatology, we frequently help patients throughout Katy and Houston, Texas safely remove symptomatic skin tags and improve their comfort and confidence.
Patient Presentation
A 41-year-old male presented to our clinic as a new patient with concerns about an irritated growth located in the right posterior axilla (armpit area). The lesion had become increasingly bothersome due to friction and irritation. The patient sought evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment options.
During the dermatologic examination, the scalp, face, head, and right axillary region were evaluated. The patient was otherwise healthy, well-developed, and in no acute distress.
Dermatologic Examination Findings
Examination revealed a pedunculated, skin-colored papule located in the right posterior axilla. The appearance was characteristic of a skin tag (acrochordon), a benign overgrowth of skin commonly found in areas where skin rubs together.
Skin tags most commonly occur in:
Armpits (axillae)
Neck
Groin
Eyelids
Under the breasts
Although benign, these growths may become inflamed, irritated, or traumatized through daily activities.
Diagnosis
Skin Tag (Acrochordon) – ICD-10: L91.8
The lesion demonstrated classic clinical features of a benign skin tag and did not show concerning characteristics suggestive of skin cancer or atypical growth.
Treatment Discussion
The patient was counseled regarding the nature of skin tags and available treatment options.
Topics discussed included:
Skin tags are benign growths and generally do not require treatment unless symptomatic.
Friction from clothing can cause irritation and discomfort.
Removal options include cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen), surgical excision, or snip removal.
Potential risks of removal include bleeding, infection, pigment changes, pain, and rare scarring.
After reviewing the risks and benefits, the patient elected to proceed with cosmetic skin tag removal.
Procedure: Skin Tag Removal
Written informed consent was obtained prior to treatment.
The lesion was cleansed and prepared using standard sterile technique. Local anesthesia was achieved with 0.5 cc of 0.5% lidocaine with epinephrine (1:200,000) to ensure patient comfort.
The skin tag was then removed using a gradle excision technique. Hemostasis was successfully achieved with Drysol solution.
Procedure Summary
Location: Right posterior axilla
Number of skin tags removed: 1
Anesthesia: Lidocaine with epinephrine
Technique: Gradle excision
Hemostasis: Drysol
Outcome: Successful removal without complications
The patient tolerated the procedure well and was provided with routine wound care instructions.
Why Do Skin Tags Develop?
Although the exact cause is not fully understood, skin tags are associated with:
Friction between skin surfaces
Obesity
Genetics
Aging
Insulin resistance and diabetes
Hormonal changes
Because the armpits experience frequent friction and moisture, they are one of the most common locations for skin tag formation.
When Should You See a Dermatologist?
Patients should seek evaluation if a skin growth:
Becomes irritated or painful
Bleeds repeatedly
Changes rapidly in size or color
Gets caught on clothing or jewelry
Causes cosmetic concerns
Is difficult to identify
While most skin tags are harmless, a board-certified dermatologist can distinguish benign lesions from other growths that may require further evaluation.
Expert Skin Tag Removal in Katy and Houston, Texas
At Village Dermatology, we provide expert diagnosis and treatment of skin tags, moles, cysts, and other common skin growths. Whether your lesion is causing discomfort or you simply want cosmetic improvement, our experienced dermatology team offers safe and effective treatment options tailored to your needs.
If you have an irritated skin tag or another concerning skin growth, schedule an appointment with Village Dermatology for a professional evaluation.
