Papeln

Papeln, in dermatology commonly referred to as papules, are small, solid, raised skin lesions that measure up to about 1 centimeter in diameter. They are a primary skin lesion and are distinct from macules (flat spots), vesicles (fluid-filled), pustules (pus-filled), nodules (larger solid elevations), and plaques (coalesced elevations). Papules can be skin-colored, red, brown, or pigmented and may have a smooth or rough surface. They may occur alone or in groups and can be pruritic or asymptomatic.

Cause and appearance of papules result from localized epidermal proliferation or inflammatory infiltration in the dermis. They appear in a wide range of conditions, including inflammatory dermatoses such as lichen planus, psoriasis, and eczema; infectious conditions like warts (HPV) and molluscum contagiosum; and hypersensitivity or drug reactions. Insect bites and keratosis pilaris are additional examples. In some diseases papules are the dominant lesion, while in others they form part of a mixed eruption with vesicles or pustules.

Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on examination and distribution. Dermoscopy or histopathology via skin biopsy may be used when the diagnosis is uncertain or when malignancy must be excluded.

Treatment depends on the underlying condition. Management may include topical corticosteroids or retinoids for inflammatory papules, cryotherapy or other therapies for warts, and targeted treatment of infections or drug reactions. Some papules resolve with treatment of the cause, while others persist as part of chronic skin conditions.