Viral Warts
Viral warts, commonly known as warts, are noncancerous skin growths caused by various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts are one of the most common dermatological conditions and can appear on different parts of the body, including the hands, feet, face, and genital areas. There are several types of warts, each associated with different HPV strains.
Warts are generally harmless but can be unsightly and sometimes uncomfortable or painful, depending on their location and size. Treatment options for warts may include over-the-counter treatments like salicylic acid, cryotherapy (freezing), laser therapy, or surgical removal by a healthcare provider. The choice of treatment depends on the type of wart, its location, and individual preferences
common types of warts
Common Warts (Verruca Vulgaris): These warts typically appear on the hands and fingers. They have a rough, raised surface and are often grayish or brownish in color.
Plantar Warts: These warts develop on the soles of the feet and are often flat and thickened due to the pressure of walking. They may have black dots in the center and can be painful when walking.
Flat Warts (Verruca Plana): Flat warts are usually small, smooth, and flat-topped. They can occur in clusters on the face, neck, hands, or other parts of the body.
Genital Warts (Condylomata Acuminata): Genital warts are sexually transmitted and appear in the genital and anal areas. They can vary in size and shape and are usually pink or flesh-colored.
Filiform Warts: Filiform warts are long and slender warts that often appear on the face, particularly around the mouth and eyes. They can resemble small threads or projections.
treatment of viral warts
Topical Treatments:
- Salicylic Acid: Over-the-counter products containing salicylic acid are often used to soften and gradually remove warts. These products come in various forms, including gels, liquids, and patches.
- Prescription-Strength Salicylic Acid: A healthcare provider may prescribe a stronger salicylic acid treatment for more stubborn warts.
- Cantharidin: A healthcare provider can apply cantharidin, a chemical derived from blister beetles, to the wart, which forms a blister and allows for the easy removal of the dead tissue.
Cryotherapy (Cryosurgery):
- Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze the wart, causing it to peel off. This is typically performed by a healthcare provider.
Electrosurgery (Electrocautery):
- An electric current is used to burn off the wart. This is a medical procedure usually performed in a healthcare setting.
Laser Treatment:
- A focused laser beam is used to vaporize the wart tissue. Laser therapy is typically performed by a dermatologist or healthcare provider.
Immunotherapy:
- Immunotherapy stimulates the body’s immune system to target and eliminate the wart. Examples of immunotherapy treatments include imiquimod and interferon injections.
Duct Tape Occlusion:
- Some people use the “duct tape method” where they cover the wart with duct tape, leaving it on for several days, and then removing it. This process is often repeated until the wart disappears.
Surgical Removal:
- In some cases, a healthcare provider may surgically remove the wart. This is typically reserved for large, persistent warts.
Intralesional Immunotherapy:
- In certain cases, injections of antigens like candida or mumps are used to stimulate the body’s immune response to eliminate the wart.