Warts

What are warts?

Warts are benign growths on the skin that are caused by a virus, human papillomavirus (HPV).  There are over one hundred different types of HPV and all infect different parts of the body.  HPV can be spread from person to person and can also be spread by touching a contaminated surface.  Although it is likely for a person with warts to infect another person by touching them, warts do not always develop after contact with a wart.  Some people are more likely to get warts than others.

There are five different kinds of warts.  Warts are classified according to appearance and the location of the body affected.  

• Common warts: rough, gray-brown in color and have a dome-like appearance.  Common warts are most commonly located on the hands, backs of fingers, toes and knees.
• Plantar warts: hard, thick patches of skin with dark specks.  Plantar warts grow on the soles of the feet and sometimes cause pain when walking or standing.  Plantar warts are not the same as “Planter’s warts.”
• Flat warts: small, flat, and pink, light brown, or light yellow in color.  Flat warts usually grow on the face, arms, or legs.
• Filiform warts: skin colored and have growths that look like stalks or threads sticking out of them.  Filiform warts are often found on the face, particularly on the mouth, nose, or beard area.
• Periungual warts: bumps with uneven surfaces and borders.  Periungual warts affect fingernails and toenails.

How are warts treated?

Most warts resolve on their own within months or years.  However, warts can be uncomfortable and annoying so faster resolution may be desirable.  There are over-the-counter treatment options available for common warts and there are other options that include either a primary care physician or a dermatologist.  Genital warts should be treated by a physician.

Over-the-counter treatment options include:

• Salicylic-acid preparations: Salicylic acid is available in a variety of formulations so it can be applied to all shapes and sizes.  Salicylic acid works by dissolving the protein in the wart and the skin around it.  Salicylic acid products include medicated discs and plasters that can be placed directly on the wart and are therefore somewhat more long acting.  Salicylic acid is also available as a liquid and gel.