Warts
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Warts: Causes, Types, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Warts are small, rough, noncancerous growths that appear on the skin when it becomes infected with certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Though usually harmless, warts can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and contagious, spreading through direct contact or by sharing personal items. They can appear anywhere on the body, but are most common on the hands, feet, face, and genitals. Understanding the causes, types, and treatment options for warts helps in managing and preventing them effectively.
Causes of Warts
Warts are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), a group of more than 100 related viruses. When the virus enters the skin through small cuts or abrasions, it triggers rapid growth of cells on the outer layer of the skin, forming a wart.
Key factors that increase the risk of developing warts include:
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Weakened Immune System:
People with a compromised immune system, such as those with HIV or on immunosuppressive drugs, are more susceptible to warts. -
Skin Contact:
Warts can spread from person to person through direct skin contact or indirectly via surfaces like towels, razors, or shoes. -
Skin Injuries:
Damaged or broken skin provides an entry point for the virus. -
Moist Environments:
HPV thrives in warm, moist environments such as swimming pools, locker rooms, and public showers.
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Types of Warts
Different strains of HPV cause different types of warts. The most common types include:
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Common Warts (Verruca Vulgaris):
These are rough, raised bumps that typically appear on the hands, fingers, or around the nails. They are grayish or brown and may have black dots (clotted blood vessels). -
Plantar Warts:
Found on the soles of the feet, these warts can be painful due to pressure while walking. They often appear flat and may grow in clusters, known as mosaic warts. -
Flat Warts (Verruca Plana):
Smooth, flat-topped, and slightly yellow or pink, these warts often appear on the face, arms, or legs and are more common in children and teenagers. -
Filiform Warts:
These are long, narrow, thread-like growths that usually appear around the mouth, eyes, and nose. They can spread quickly if irritated during shaving or touching. -
Genital Warts:
Caused by specific strains of HPV, genital warts appear on the genital and anal areas. They are sexually transmitted and require medical treatment to prevent complications. -
Periungual Warts:
These warts grow under or around fingernails and toenails, causing pain and sometimes affecting nail growth.
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Symptoms of Warts
Warts are usually painless, but depending on their type and location, they can cause discomfort. Common symptoms include:
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Small, grainy bumps on the skin
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Rough texture
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Black dots (tiny clotted blood vessels)
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Pain or tenderness (especially plantar warts)
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Itching or irritation in affected areas
Treatment Options for Warts
While some warts may disappear on their own over time, medical treatment ensures faster and safer removal, especially for persistent or painful warts.
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Topical Treatments:
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Salicylic Acid: A common first-line treatment that removes layers of the wart gradually.
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Trichloroacetic Acid: Used by dermatologists for stubborn warts.
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Imiquimod Cream: Stimulates the immune system to fight the virus.
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Cryotherapy (Freezing):
The wart is frozen with liquid nitrogen, causing it to blister and fall off after a few sessions. -
Electrocautery:
The wart is burned off using an electric current. This method is effective for small warts but may leave a small scar. -
Laser Therapy:
Used for deep or resistant warts, laser treatment destroys the wart tissue with focused light energy. -
Surgical Removal:
For large or recurring warts, minor surgery may be performed to cut out the wart under local anesthesia. -
Chemical Peels:
Used mainly for flat warts, chemical peels help exfoliate the skin and remove infected layers.
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