Warts are indeed common skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are characterized by small, raised bumps on the skin's surface. While warts are generally harmless, they can be contagious and have the potential to spread to other areas of the body or to other individuals through direct contact.
Here are some additional details about warts:
1. Types of warts: There are various types of warts that can occur in different areas of the body. Some common types include:
- Common warts (verruca vulgaris): These typically appear on the hands, fingers, or around the nails. They have a rough, grainy texture and may have a cauliflower-like appearance.
- Plantar warts: These warts develop on the soles of the feet and can be uncomfortable or painful due to the pressure exerted on them while walking or standing. They may have a hardened, callus-like surface with small black dots.
- Flat warts (verruca plana): These warts are often found on the face, legs, or other areas that are frequently shaved. They are usually small, smooth, and flesh-colored or slightly pink.
- Genital warts: These warts are sexually transmitted and appear on or around the genital or anal area. They can vary in size and shape and may occur singly or in clusters.
2. Spread and transmission: Warts can spread to other parts of the body through self-inoculation, meaning that touching, scratching, or picking at a wart can cause the virus to spread to nearby skin. Additionally, warts can be transmitted from person to person through direct contact, such as shaking hands, sharing personal items like towels or razors, or engaging in sexual activity with an infected individual.
3. Spontaneous resolution: In many cases, warts can go away without any treatment over a long period. This is because the body's immune system can recognize and fight off the HPV infection, leading to the eventual disappearance of the wart. However, the timeline for spontaneous resolution can vary significantly, ranging from a few months to several years.
4. Treatment options: While many warts resolve on their own, some individuals may seek treatment for cosmetic reasons, discomfort, or if the warts are spreading rapidly. Treatment options may include:
- Topical medications: Over-the-counter treatments and prescription medications containing salicylic acid or other ingredients can help remove warts by peeling away layers of the skin over time.
- Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the wart using liquid nitrogen, which causes it to blister and eventually fall off. Multiple sessions may be required.
- Electrosurgery and curettage: This procedure involves cutting or scraping off the wart using an electric needle or scalpel. It is typically performed by a healthcare professional.
- Laser therapy: High-intensity laser beams are used to destroy the blood vessels that supply the wart, leading to its removal.
- Immunotherapy: In some cases, treatments that stimulate the immune system, such as applying certain chemicals or substances like imiquimod or candida antigen, may be used to help eliminate warts.
It's important to note that even with treatment, there is no guarantee that warts will not recur or spread. It's advisable to consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and to discuss the most suitable treatment options for your specific situation. They can also provide guidance on preventive measures and offer advice regarding any concerns or questions you may have about warts.
How are warts diagnosed?
When it comes to diagnosing warts, healthcare providers typically rely on a combination of patient history, physical examination, and in some cases, additional procedures. Here's a more detailed explanation of the diagnostic process for warts:
- Patient history: Your healthcare provider will begin by
asking you questions about your symptoms, including the appearance of the
growths, any associated pain or discomfort, and how long the warts have been
present. They may also inquire about your medical history and any previous
treatments or interventions you have tried.
- Physical examination: During the physical examination, your
healthcare provider will closely examine the affected skin areas. They will
observe the size, color, texture, and location of the growths. Warts typically
have a characteristic appearance, with a rough or grainy surface and a
well-defined border. The provider may use a magnifying glass or dermatoscope to
get a better view of the warts.
- Scraping of the top layers: In some cases, your healthcare
provider may use a small blade or scalpel to gently scrape away the top layers
of the wart. This procedure is called curettage. By doing so, they may reveal
tiny black dots within the wart. These dots are actually clotted blood vessels,
known as thrombosed capillaries, which are commonly seen in warts.
- Referral to a dermatologist: Depending on the complexity of
the case or if the diagnosis is uncertain, your healthcare provider may refer
you to a dermatologist. Dermatologists are medical specialists who focus on
diagnosing and treating skin conditions. They have specialized knowledge and
tools to accurately identify different types of warts.
- Shave biopsy: In certain situations where there is doubt about the diagnosis or to rule out other skin conditions, a dermatologist may perform a shave biopsy. During this procedure, a small amount of the wart is shaved off using a scalpel or a specialized tool. The tissue sample is then sent to a laboratory for further examination under a microscope. This helps confirm the diagnosis and exclude other potential skin conditions.
It's important to note that in most cases, warts can be diagnosed based on their typical appearance and the patient's history. Additional procedures like a shave biopsy are not routinely performed for warts but may be considered in specific situations where there is uncertainty or suspicion of an atypical presentation.
If you have concerns about growths on your skin and suspect they may be warts, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider. They will be able to provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options based on your specific circumstances.
Warts can spread to other parts of the body. And they can spread to other people. They can be spread by skin-to-skin contact. The virus may be spread by towels or other personal items. You can help prevent warts from spreading by:
- Not letting the warts come into contact with other parts of your body
- Not letting the warts touch other people’s skin
- Not sharing personal items, such as clothes, wash clothes, or towels
- Wearing socks or slippers if you have warts on the bottom of your feet
- Covering the wart with a gauze pad or a band aid.
- Washing your hands right after you touch a wart.
Home Treatment?
We usually recommend home treatment as a first step, unless you have warts on your face or anogenital area that should be assessed by your doctor.
You can buy these home treatments without a prescription. Check with us if you aren’t sure about treating your warts at home.
Salicylic acid
This treatment is effective and usually painless. Don’t use it on the face or anogenital area. It takes 2 to 12 months to cure a wart.
Follow the package instructions, which usually include these steps:
- Soak the wart in water to loosen and soften the skin.
- Apply the salicylic acid directly to the wart only (not the surrounding skin) before you go to bed.
- Cover the area with a bandage. Wash off the salicylic acid in the morning.
- Repeat treatment every night until the wart softens.
- Carefully remove dead skin once or twice a week with a file or pumice stone.
Dead skin contains live wart virus, so dispose of it carefully. Don’t use the pumice stone or file for any other purpose.
If the area gets too tender, stop using the medication for 2 or 3 days until your skin heals.
Duct tape
Keep the wart covered with a piece of good quality duct tape for six days in a row. On the 6th night, remove the tape and:
- Soak the wart.
- File it down with a disposable emery board.
- Leave the wart uncovered.
On the 7th day, reapply the duct tape. Continue this treatment for up to 2 months, or until the wart goes away.
This information is not intended to diagnose health problems or to take the place of specific medical advice or care you receive from your physician or other health care professional. If you have persistent health problems, or if you have additional questions, please consult with your doctor. If you have questions or need more information about your medication, please speak to your pharmacist. This page does not endorse the medications or products mentioned. Any trade names listed are for easy identification only.
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