What Are Warts?
Warts are non-cancerous skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus infects the outer layer of skin, causing rapid cell growth that forms a wart. Warts are highly contagious and can spread through direct skin contact or contaminated surfaces like towels, nail clippers, or floors.
There are different types of warts, including:
- Common warts (verruca vulgaris): Rough, raised bumps, often on hands and fingers.
- Plantar warts: Found on the soles of the feet, often causing pain when walking.
- Flat warts: Small, smooth warts that appear in clusters on the face, hands, or legs.
- Filiform warts: Long, thread-like growths, usually on the face or neck.
- Periungual warts: Found around the nails, causing nail deformities.
- Genital warts: A sexually transmitted form of HPV affecting the genital area (covered separately under genital warts).
Common Causes & Risk Factors of Warts
Warts occur when HPV enters the skin through small cuts or abrasions. Some factors that increase the risk of getting warts include:
- Weakened immune system (due to illness, stress, or medication).
- Frequent skin-to-skin contact with infected individuals.
- Walking barefoot in public areas like pools or locker rooms (plantar warts).
- Biting fingernails or picking at cuticles (periungual warts).
- Using shared personal items like razors, towels, or nail clippers.
- Direct exposure to HPV through minor skin injuries.
Symptome & Erkennung
Warts vary in appearance depending on the type, but common symptoms include:
- Small, rough, or grainy bumps on the skin.
- Flesh-colored, white, pink, or brown growths.
- Black dots or specks (clotted blood vessels inside the wart).
- Pain or discomfort, especially with plantar warts on the feet.
- Clusters of warts that spread over time.
- Changes in the surface of the skin, making it harder or bumpy.
How Are Warts Diagnosed?
Doctors usually diagnose warts based on their appearance. In rare cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to rule out other conditions. No blood test is required, as warts are a visible skin condition.
Best Treatment Options for Warts
Although warts often go away on their own, treatment can help speed up removal and prevent spreading. Common treatment options include:
Topical Medications:
- Salicylic acid (Collomak): A peeling agent that removes wart layers over time.
- Podophyllotoxin (Warticon, Condylox, Condyline): Used for resistant warts, especially genital warts.
- Imiquimod (Aldara): Boosts the immune system to fight HPV and remove warts.
- Glutaraldehyde (Glutarol): A hardening agent that destroys wart tissue.
In-Clinic Treatments:
- Cryotherapy: Freezing warts with liquid nitrogen, causing them to fall off.
- Electrocautery: Burning off warts with an electric current.
- Laser therapy: Targets and destroys wart tissue.
- Surgical removal: Used for large, painful, or persistent warts.
