An association with noninsulin dependent diabetes mellitus also has been observed. Reports exist suggesting that the mechanism is through the effect of insulin and glucose starvation. The previous study showed no correlation between the location, size, color, or number of acrochordons with impairment of glucose tolerance. Acrochordons are characterized by acanthotic, flattened or frondlike epithelium. A papillarylike dermis is composed of loosely arranged collagen fibers and dilated capillaries and lymphatic vessels.
Appendages generally are absent.
It was thought that acrochordons are marked by decreased numbers of elastic fibers, though one study of elastic tissue in fibroepithelial polyps showed no deficiency of this tissue. Fibroepithelial polyps of the oral mucosa often have slightly flattened epithelium and a tightly packed collagen stroma, which lacks an abundance of fibroblasts. Small pedunculated acrochordons may be removed with curved or serrated blade scissors, while larger skin tags may simply require excision. For small acrochordons, application of aluminum chloride prior to removal will decrease the amount of minor bleeding. Anesthesia prior to electrodesiccation is another option.