Book Your Appointment Now! Approximately 90 percent of cases of anal warts are caused by HPV. HPV is a virus that is most commonly acquired through sexual activity with a person who has the infection. These warts are typically seen inside the anus, but some might also be seen around the genital area. In most cases, the warts are not symptomatic. In fact, many patients are not aware that they are present unless they physically feel the growth. They are usually either flesh-colored or light brown.

A skin tag is a noncancerous growth of excess skin. Skin tags that form around the anus or rectum are called anal skin tags. Anal skin tags are typically small, measuring a few millimeters or less. They may be the same color as the skin or slightly darker.

The skin around the anus is relatively loose to allow opening for the passage of stool. It is prone to be stretched by enlargement of the underlying hemorrhoid blood vessels. The stretched skin may persist leading to a bump or skin tag. Anal skin tags are usually due to previous swollen hemorrhoids.