Wart(s) Specialist

What are warts?

Warts are growths, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), that appear on the surface of the skin. The location of warts is most often on the hands and feet but may also appear on different areas of the body depending on the type of wart. The HPV virus stimulates the growth of cells which causes warts to appear on the outer layer of the skin. Warts can be a source of embarrassment and may cause discomfort depending on the area they are located in. For instance, plantar warts are located on the soles of the feet. As the shoes or socks rub against the plantar wart it causes friction bringing general discomfort and embarrassment.

What are plantar warts?

Plantar warts are a common, noncancerous skin growth found on the bottom of the foot caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These warts are not harmful, but can be a source of irritation and discomfort. They are usually the size of an eraser on a pencil but they can grow larger and sometimes in clusters, these are known as mosaic warts. Patients with plantar warts typically want to have them removed because they feel embarrassed or uncomfortable about them. Though plantar warts do not pose a health risk they can be passed from person to person and to different areas of the body. Those with a suppressed immune system are more vulnerable to getting warts.

How are warts treated?

The goal of wart treatment depends on the type of wart, its location, and its symptoms. You may need to follow a course of treatment that can last for weeks or months. Treatment for warts can include:

• Cryotherapy, also known as wart freezing, this procedure uses very cold liquid nitrogen to freeze a wart off.
• Medicines such as retinoid cream, cantharidin, or imiquimod.
• Surgery such as electrosurgery, curettage, and laser surgery.
• Chemical peels with glycolic acid, tretinoin, or a stronger formula of salicylic acid.