Warts

Warts are benign skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These growths vary in color, size, and texture, and can sometimes lead to discomfort or pain. Warts have the potential to be spread through sexual contact. Treatment often involves the application of drying agents, such as medications belonging to the beta hydroxy acid class.

Causes

• Warts result from specific strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV).

• The virus induces an overproduction of keratin, a firm protein, giving warts their rough and hard texture.

• Transmission occurs through direct contact with a wart or indirectly via contaminated surfaces, like towels or communal shower floors.

• Skin areas that are moist or have tiny cuts are particularly susceptible to infection.

• Although the virus spreads easily, not everyone exposed will develop warts due to different immune responses in people.

• Individuals at higher risk include children, young adults, and those with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms

Warts arise from different strains of HPV and exhibit these common symptoms:

• Typically, they appear as small, fleshy growths on the skin.

• The growths often feel rough and may feature tiny black dots, which are clotted blood vessels.

• Warts are most frequently found on the hands or fingers.

• Depending on the type, they differ in shape and color. They may present as dome-shaped, flat, smooth, rough, or even threadlike.

• Most warts are painless, but some can be painful if located in areas subjected to frequent pressure or friction, such as the feet.

• Although generally harmless, warts can cause self-consciousness or embarrassment.

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider usually diagnoses warts through visual examination, recognizing their distinctive rough, bumpy surfaces, and small black spots, known as thrombosed capillaries. If the diagnosis is unclear, the professional may scrape the wart to examine its internal features or perform a shave biopsy to rule out similar skin conditions. Since warts can resemble other skin lesions, acquiring an accurate diagnosis is crucial to determine the appropriate treatment. If you discover a new growth on your skin and are unsure about it, visiting a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation is advisable.

Treatments

Warts, which result from HPV infection, can be treated through various strategies tailored to their type and location. For at-home care, over-the-counter Salicylic Acid treatments help by progressively peeling away the wart's layers. This method is more effective when combined with techniques such as covering the wart with duct tape. If these methods are ineffective, a healthcare provider might recommend advanced treatments. These include cryotherapy, which freezes the wart with liquid nitrogen, and laser therapy, targeting and destroying the wart's blood supply. Additionally, prescription medications such as Cantharidin or 5-Fluorouracil can be professionally applied to accelerate healing. Due to their persistent nature and tendency to recur or spread, seeking professional advice for the most effective treatment plan is essential.

Prevention

To reduce the risk of developing warts, consider these preventive measures:

• Avoid touching or picking at warts, whether your own or others', to prevent spreading HPV.

• Do not share personal items such as towels, razors, and nail clippers, as HPV can transfer indirectly through these items.

• Keep your skin moisturized to avoid cracks that can act as entry points for the virus.

• Wear shoes in public places like locker rooms and pool areas, where a moist environment may facilitate the spread of HPV.

Following these hygiene and lifestyle tactics can significantly reduce your risk.