Warts are relatively small growths found on the skin that are caused by a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, according to MedicineNet. While warts are contagious most do not spread too easily. Therefore, a person with warts will not necessarily spread them to other parts of his or her body or to other members of the household. Warts are not a dangerous skin condition, but they can be embarrassing and some may hurt or itch. There are several different types of warts each with their own characteristics.
Common warts
These warts are typically found on the hands, elbows, knees, or fingers, but they may grow anywhere on the body. Since warts are caused by a virus, they are often found where the skin is commonly broken such as near the fingernails when a patient bites the nails or picks at hangnails. They are often a greyish-brown color that sometimes contains black dots. Common warts have a rough surface that almost looks like a cauliflower.
Flat warts
Usually found on the forehead or face, these warts are most often seen in children and are sometimes seen in teenagers, but are rarely noticed on adults. When they do occur in adults, men will usually find them in the beard area of the face while women will likely find them on their legs. Due to this frequent occurrence in children, flat warts are sometimes referred to as juvenile warts, according to the Nemours Foundation. These warts are usually only about the size of a pinhead and have a smooth, flat surface. They may grow in a light brown, yellow, or pink color and may be found on the face, knees, hands, or arms. These warts will often grow in clusters that can contain as many as 100 warts.
Genital warts (condyloma)
According to the National Institutes of Health, genital warts may grow on the genitals, between the thighs, in the pubic area, or even inside the anal area or vagina. These warts are considered a sexually transmitted disease and are very contagious.
Plantar Warts
The bottom of the feet is where plantar warts will grow. This is usually the only type of wart that may consistently cause pain, especially when running or walking. The American Academy of Dermatology states that plantar warts may be flat or may grow inward and can be difficult to treat. When these warts grow in clusters they are referred to as mosaic warts.
Periungual and subungual warts
These warts may be found near or even under toenails or fingernails and are more difficult to treat than other types of warts.
Filiform warts
A filiform wart will often grow quickly and is found on the face near the eyes, nose, or mouth. They appear similar to the shape of a finger and are usually flesh-colored.
Diagnosis
Warts are typically diagnosed based on where they are located and what they look like. Sometimes a doctor will biopsy the wart to rule out other conditions such as a callus, a corn, skin cancer, or other growth on the skin.
Treatment
There are several different options for treating warts. Some remedies may be bought over the counter and some need to be provided or performed by a dermatologist. Warts can go away without medical attention, but they will sometimes come back.
When should a physician be contacted?
The American Academy of Family Physicians states that a doctor should be called before trying to remove the wart if it is located on the genitals or face. A medical professional should also be consulted if treatment has been attempted at home without success for eight weeks or if the wart causes pain.
There is no way to completely prevent warts, but practicing proper hygiene, not biting the fingernails, and making sure to wear flip flops or other shoes when around the pool or public showers will help to lower the chances of developing a wart. All health related concerns should always be brought to a medical professional.
