A papilloma is a benign (noncancerous) growth that arises from epithelial tissue, forming small, wart-like projections on the skin or mucous membranes. It is often caused by infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), though not all papillomas are virus-related. Papillomas can develop in various areas, including the skin, throat, vocal cords, breast ducts (intraductal papilloma), or genital region. They are typically slow-growing and may appear as soft, flesh-colored or slightly darker bumps. While most papillomas are harmless, some types—particularly those associated with high-risk HPV strains—can be linked to precancerous changes depending on their location. Medical evaluation may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and rule out malignancy.