Warts
Also known as: Verrucae, Viral papules, HPV-induced lesions
Warts are common benign skin growths caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection at the skin surface.
Signs & Symptoms
- Raised, rough bumps
- Skin-colored to brown
- May have black specks
- Painful if on pressure areas
- Can spread to other areas
Causes
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Direct contact
- Contaminated surfaces
- Minor skin trauma
- Immunocompromise
Risk Factors
- Compromised immunity
- Skin damage
- Moist environments
- Nail biting
- Weak immune system
When to See a Doctor
See a dermatologist if warts spread, become painful, involve sensitive areas, or don't respond to home treatment.
Treatment Options
Treatment options vary by individual. Consult a dermatologist for a personalised plan.
- Cryotherapy (freezing)
- Salicylic acid
- Laser surgery
- Surgical excision
- Immunotherapy
- Combination therapy
Understanding Warts
Warts are benign skin growths caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Over 100 HPV types exist; most warts result from common, non-cancerous types. Plantar and common warts affect approximately 10% of the population.
HPV Types
Low-risk Types (most warts):
- HPV 1, 2, 4 (common, plantar warts)
- HPV 3, 10 (flat warts)
High-risk Types (genital, potential cancer risk):
- HPV 16, 18 (cervical cancer association)
- Require immediate professional evaluation
Clinical Types
Common Warts: Rough, raised, skin-colored, usually hands
Plantar Warts: On soles; often painful; can form clusters
Flat Warts: Small, smooth, numerous, face/arms
Filiform Warts: Finger-like projections, often facial
Periungual Warts: Around and under nails
Genital Warts: Sexually transmitted; high-risk types
Transmission
- Direct Contact: Skin-to-skin from infected person
- Fomites: Contaminated surfaces (changing rooms, showers)
- Autoinoculation: Spread to other body areas
- Minor Trauma: Small cuts increase susceptibility
Why Some People Get Warts
- Weakened Immunity: Reduced immune surveillance
- Skin Exposure: Frequent trauma facilitates entry
- HPV Exposure: Higher contact risk
Most people exposed don’t develop warts due to adequate immune response.
Clinical Course
- Incubation: 1 month to 2+ years
- Growth Phase: Variable duration, most grow 2-5 years
- Spontaneous Regression: 20-30% annually; average 2-3 years
”When to See a Doctor”
Concerning features: rapid growth, bleeding, color changes, pain, or persistent presence. Genital lesions require immediate evaluation.
Prevention Strategies
- Maintain good skin hygiene
- Avoid touching warts
- Don’t share personal items (towels, razors, nailclippers)
- Protect feet in public areas
- Treat immunocompromise
- HPV vaccination (for preventable types)
Treatment Timing
Early treatment prevents spread and typically achieves faster clearance than waiting for spontaneous resolution.
Visit Dr. Dr. Sanjay Agrawal for professional wart evaluation and treatment options.
Treated at Our Clinic
Have this condition?
Call the clinic or visit Dr. Sanjay Agrawal directly for a proper diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.