Warts are common skin growths caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. While warts are generally harmless, they can be unsightly, uncomfortable, or spread to other areas of the body. At Elite Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, our experienced team offers safe and effective removal options for warts to address your concerns and restore skin health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes warts?
Warts are small, rough growths that can appear anywhere on the body, including the hands, feet, face, and genital area. They are caused by various strains of HPV and can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces. The virus enters the body through small cuts, breaks, or abrasions in the skin, where it infects the top layer of skin cells (epidermis) and causes them to grow rapidly, resulting in the formation of a wart. Certain factors can increase a person’s risk of developing warts including a weakened immune system, warm moist environment, trauma to the skin, and genetic predisposition.
How do I know if I have a wart?
Warts may vary in appearance depending on their location and type, including common warts, plantar warts (on the feet), flat warts (on the face and hands), and genital warts. Warts may present with the following symptoms:
- Small, rough, raised growths on the skin
- Flesh-colored, white, pink, or brown in color
- Rough or bumpy texture
- Pain or discomfort, especially when located on weight-bearing areas like the soles of the feet (plantar warts)
If you are uncertain if you have a wart, contact Elite Dermatology and Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation with one of our dermatologists. We are able to diagnose warts just based on clinical examination.
What are the treatments options for warts?
Treatment options for warts include:
- Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter or prescription topical medications containing salicylic acid or other keratolytic agents can be applied to the wart to help remove it gradually.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen to destroy the affected tissue.
- Electrosurgery: Using a high-frequency electrical current to burn and remove the wart.
- Surgical Excision: Surgically removing the wart using a scalpel or blade under local anesthesia.
- Candida Immunotherapy: Injecting a small amount of yeast to stimulate an immune response and promote wart clearance.
- Bleomycin Injection: Injecting a small amount of bleomycin (a antineoplastic antibiotic) to inhibit the growth of wart cells.
The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the location, size, and type of wart, as well as individual patient preferences and medical history. Complete resolution of warts can sometimes take multiple monthly treatments. It is important to follow-up as recommended by our dermatologists to ensure the best outcomes.
How do I prevent warts?
To prevent the spread of warts, it’s essential to practice good hygiene, avoid sharing personal items such as towels or razors, and refrain from picking or scratching warts. Regular skin examinations by a dermatologist are important for monitoring existing warts and identifying any new growths.
If you have concerns about warts or are interested in exploring removal options, contact Elite Dermatology and Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation with our experienced dermatologists.
