papilloma

A papilloma (plural papillomas or papillomata) (papillo- + -oma) is a benign epithelial tumor growing exophytically (outwardly projecting) in nipple-like and often finger-like fronds. In this context, papilla refers to the projection created by the tumor, not a tumor on an already existing papilla (such as the nipple).

When used without context, it frequently refers to infections (squamous cell papilloma) caused by a human papillomavirus (HPV), most commonly in the form of warts. Human papillomavirus infections are a major cause of cervical cancer, vulvar cancer, vaginal cancer, penile cancer, anal cancer, and HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancers. Most viral warts are caused by human papillomavirus infection (HPV). There are nearly 200 distinct human papillomaviruses (HPVs), and many types are carcinogenic. There are, however, a number of other conditions that cause papillomas, and in many cases the cause may be uncertain.