Warts and verrucas are benign proliferative growths on the skin and mucus lining caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Verrucas are a specific type of wart (plantar warts) that grow on the soles of your feet, sometimes causing pain when walking.
Although these growths may resolve on their own, it’s not always quick or guaranteed. Thankfully, there are various treatments available to effectively remove warts and verrucas.
Warts are caused by HPV infections. More than 100 types of HPV have been identified, most of which can lead to the formation of warts in certain parts of the body, such as the face, hands, feet, and genitals. Common types of warts include:
Typically, low-risk HPV types cause the development of warts, while high-risk HPV types are not likely to cause warts but are associated with developing into cancer. Hence, a proper diagnosis and genotyping of the HPV type is important for proper risk management.
Various types of warts are caused by infections of the different types of HPV. Common routes of transmission of the virus include [6]:
When should I be worried about a wart?
Although warts are typically caused by low-risk HPV types and can self-resolve over time, over-the-counter treatments can be applied to reduce their appearance or remove them. You should visit the dermatologist in these cases:
Ideally, you should visit a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis of warts and verrucas, as misdiagnosis can lead to improper and ineffective treatment.
How are warts and verrucas diagnosed?
Diagnosis of warts and verruca is commonly done with the following tests [1]:
Warts often resolve on their own in a few years. However, some patients may want them removed or treated, various treatment options for warts and verrucas are available, but the effectiveness of each treatment varies and no single treatment is consistently effective for all patients. Treatment is typically done for relief of symptoms, aesthetic purpose, or if there is a risk of transmission to others [7].
Effectiveness of each treatment may vary from person to person. It is important that you consult your dermatologist on the different treatment methods and any associated risks involved if you plan to undergo a wart removal procedure.
When should I be worried about a wart?
Although warts are typically caused by low-risk HPV types and can self-resolve over time, over-the-counter treatments can be applied to reduce their appearance or remove them. You should visit the dermatologist in these cases:
Ideally, you should visit a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis of warts and verrucas, as misdiagnosis can lead to improper and ineffective treatment.
How are warts and verrucas diagnosed?
Diagnosis of warts and verruca is commonly done with the following tests [1]:
Viral warts caused by HPV infections can usually resolve on their own. However, diagnosis of the warts cannot be ignored, as some types of HPV present high risk of malignancy.
Reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns about warts and HPV infections, our dermatologists are ready to address your concerns.
Can warts go away on their own?
Most cases of HPV infections go away within 2 years, by then the warts may resolve on their own. However, if the warts are causing pain or distress, visiting a dermatologist for treatment or removal is recommended.
How effective are wart removal treatments?
Wart and verruca removal treatments have varying efficacy, with no one treatment being effective for everyone. It is advised to opt for the least invasive and inexpensive treatment methods before going for other types of treatment if the warts still come back. In any case, consulting a dermatologist can help you select the ideal treatment for your condition.
Do warts come back after removal?
Warts may come back even after removal and no one treatment guarantees that the warts will not return. This is because the virus that causes these warts are still in your body, and it may take a few years for the infection to clear.
How to get rid of warts naturally?
Warts can typically go away on their own over time However, several home remedies are thought to be able to remove warts based on their antiviral or keratolytic (ability to break down keratin) properties. Common home remedies include apple cider vinegar, pineapples, or garlic. However, it is important to know that these home remedies are not proven to be effective, and depending on the ingredients used, may cause skin irritation. A visit to the dermatologist’s office is still the recommended course of action for wart removals, as this minimises the risk of complications or spreading of HPV.
Are warts contagious?
Yes, warts can be contagious because the virus that causes warts can be spread. Common routes of transmission of HPV include sexual contact, skin-to-skin contact, and skin-to-surface contact.
How long does it take to recover from a wart removal procedure?
Depending on the type of procedure, wart removals can take between 2 to 4 weeks to recover. Do note that warts may reappear even after treatment or removal.
Whether you’re dealing with a specific skin concern or seeking to enhance your natural beauty, Livingstone Dermatology is here to guide you on your journey to healthy, radiant skin.
Schedule an appointment today and experience the Livingstone standard of care in a welcoming, professional environment.
