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Warts
(Common Warts)

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Wart facts

  • Warts are local growths in the skin that are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
  • Types of warts include common warts, flat warts, plantar warts, periungual warts, and filiform warts.
  • Warts typically disappear on their own with time, but it may take years.
  • Warts respond variably to treatment measures.
  • Over-the-counter treatments for warts include salicylic-acid preparations and freezing kits.
  • Warts may recur following treatment.

What are common warts?

Common warts are local growths in the skin that are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. There are over 100 types of HPVs. Some HPV types infect the genital tract and cause genital warts and cancers of the anal and genital regions. Other, different HPV types are responsible for common skin warts. Although warts are considered to be contagious, it is common for just one family member to have them. In addition, they often affect just one part of the body (such as the hands or the feet) but they can be spread to other areas by picking them.

What are some types of common warts?

  • There is the familiar type of dome-shaped warts on the backs of fingers, toes, and knees.
  • Plantar warts are found on the bottom of the foot. (The "plantar" part of the foot. These are not "Planter's warts.")
  • Flat ("plane") warts may arise on the face, legs, and other parts of the body, often in large numbers.
  • Periungual warts are warts around or under the nail.
  • Filiform warts typically appear as a single long stalk, often on the face.
Picture of a common wart
Picture of a common wart


Patient Comments

Viewers share their comments

Warts - OTC Treatments Question: Discuss your experience using OTC wart treatments.
Warts - Medical Treatments Question: What prompted you to go to a doctor for wart removal?
Warts - Effective Treatments Question: Which wart treatments have been effective for you?
Warts - Experiences Question: Please describe your experience with common warts.
Source: MedicineNet.com
http://www.medicinenet.com/warts_common_warts/article.htm

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