Papillomas are typically benign growths of the epithelium caused by a human papilloma virus (HPV). When found on the skin, papillomas are more commonly referred to as warts or corns. The growths, which arise from a single infected cell, characteristically exhibit small fingerlike projections and are frequently lobulated with a central vascular core.

Papillomas are usually not painful and those located on mucus membranes, especially those of the genital tract, may go unnoticed for long periods of time. Occasionally, however, some cases of genital or venereal warts may be associated with significant pain and itchiness. In rare instances, papillomas may mutate and lead to cancer.

More than 60 HPVs have been discovered, many of which are very common. The different types of HPVs often affect different regions of the body. At least thirty are known to specifically infect the genital tract, and it is estimated that about ten percent of the adults in developed countries have been infected with one or more of them. These viruses are passed onto others through sexual activity, but HPVs in general can be spread through any direct contact with an infected person or with the virus on a surface, such as a locker-room floor. Not all people exposed to HPV will develop papillomas, however, and researchers are currently trying to determine why some individuals are more susceptible to infection than others.

Papillomas of the skin are sometimes treated for cosmetic reasons, especially if they are very large or are located in a highly visible location, or to eliminate pain, which most commonly occurs when they are located on the soles of the feet. Typically, treatment for the dermal growths consists of the application of any of a variety of salicylic acid products or cryosurgery, though laser therapy is sometimes utilized in severe cases. The recurrence rate following treatment is unfortunately quite high. Papillomas of the genital tract generally require more serious forms of treatment, which may range from the application of podophyllin or other chemical solutions to a variety of surgical techniques.

Squamous Cell Papilloma at 40x Magnification - Despite the popular myth about humans developing warts from contact with toads, humans contract the growths from contact with other humans infected with a HPV.

Squamous Cell Papilloma at 10x Magnification - Papillomas have been of scientific interest for a very long time, records indicating that the Romans studied them as early as the 1st century AD.

Squamous Cell Papilloma at 20x Magnification - There is no cure for human papilloma viruses, and individuals may carry them their entire lives. Many papillomas, however, heal on their own over time and disappear.