Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Papules
Introduction
A papule is a small, solid and usually conical elevation of the skin. Papules do not contain pus, which distinguishes them from pustules. Papules often occur in clusters and can accompany rashes.
A condition that causes a papule is called a “Papulosis”. Examples of papuloses include:
- Lymphomatoid papulosis
- Bowenoid papulosis
- Clear cell papulosis
Causes
Causes
Papules can be caused by:
- Inflammation (which in turn is often caused by infection or abrasion of the skin)
- Accumulated secretion of skin tissue (hyperplasia) or glandular fluids.
- Presence of an infection such as disseminated histoplasmosis.
- Hypertrophy of skin cells
- Acne
- Drugs like Azficel-T