WARTS

Warts are benign skin growth caused by a viral infection in the top layer of the skin. The viruses that cause these warts are called Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Warts are usually skin-colored and feel rough to the touch. They can also present as dark colored, flat and smooth. Warts are passed from person to person usually by direct contact, and sometimes indirectly. They occur more easily if the skin has a small cut. Patients with a weakened immune system are more prone to a wart virus infection. Warts can disappear without treatment over several months to years, especially in children. However, they are bothersome and painful. In adults, warts do not disappear as easily without treatment.

There are a variety of treatments, depending on the age of the patient and the type of wart. Cryotherapy (freezing) is the treatment of choice. It requires repeat treatments in one to three-week intervals. At home, a topical application of Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, retinol, or even a topical immunomodulator daily is also strongly encouraged by Dr. Green. Sometimes if there is an isolated lesion the doctor can remove the wart.