Warts are non-cancerous growths on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear on any part of the body and are typically harmless, but they can be unsightly or irritating. Warts are contagious and can spread through direct contact with an infected person or surface. At Skinsol Dermatology, we offer safe and effective treatments to remove warts and help prevent future outbreaks.
Causes and Risk Factors
Warts are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which triggers the growth of skin cells in a localized area. There are several types of HPV, and each type may cause warts to appear in different areas of the body. Risk factors for developing warts include:
Direct contact: Warts are spread through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or contaminated surface.
Weakened immune system: Individuals with a weakened immune system are more susceptible to developing warts.
Frequent skin injury: Cuts, scrapes, or broken skin can make it easier for the virus to enter and cause warts.
Moist environments: Warts are more likely to develop in warm, moist areas, such as the hands and feet.
While warts are generally harmless, they can be contagious, so it’s important to avoid sharing personal items or touching warts directly.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing warts typically involves a physical examination of the affected area. Our dermatologists may look for:
Characteristics of the growth: Warts usually have a rough texture, may have small black dots (clotted blood vessels), and can vary in size and shape depending on the type.
Location: The location of the wart helps determine the likely cause and treatment options.
In some cases, if the diagnosis is unclear or if there are concerns about other skin conditions, a skin biopsy may be performed to rule out other possibilities.
Treatment Options
There are several effective treatments for warts, depending on their size, location, and persistence. Common treatment options include:
Cryotherapy: The wart is frozen using liquid nitrogen, causing it to fall off over time. This is one of the most common and effective treatments.
Topical treatments: Prescription-strength creams or solutions, such as salicylic acid, can be applied to remove the wart over time.
Electrosurgery: A method where an electric current is used to burn off the wart.
Laser therapy: Laser treatment can be used for stubborn warts, especially those that are difficult to treat with other methods.
Minor surgical removal: In cases where other treatments are ineffective, the wart may be surgically removed under local anesthesia.
Treatment choice depends on the type of wart and the patient’s individual needs. In some cases, warts may resolve on their own, but medical treatment is often preferred for more persistent or bothersome warts.
