Warts are small, benign growths on the skin that are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are different types of warts that can appear in different parts of the body. In this article, we are going to explore the five most important types of warts, their characteristics, how they can be treated and what preventative measures can be taken.
Common warts
Common warts, also known as vulgar warts, are the most common type of warts that occur on the skin. They usually appear on the hands, fingers, nails, and sometimes the face. These warts usually have a rough surface and may have small black spots on their surface, which are blood clots.
Common warts are benign and generally do not cause pain, unless they are located in areas where produces constant friction, like in the hands. They may go away on their own over time, but some people choose to treat them if they prove to be bothersome or unsightly.
Treatment of common warts
There are several options for treating common warts, which include: include:
- Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid can be applied directly to the wart to help gradually eliminate it.
- Cryotherapy: It consists of freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen to destroy the infected cells.
- Laser treatments: In more severe cases, laser treatments can be used to eliminate the wart. wart quickly and effectively.
It is important to consult a dermatologist before starting any type of treatment for common warts to determine which is the best option in each case.
Plantar warts
Plantar warts are warts that appear on the bottom of the foot, specifically in pressure areas, such as the front of the foot or the heel. These warts are usually flat and covered by a thick layer of skin, which can make them painful when walking or applying pressure to them.
Plantar warts are more common in people who frequent humid places. , such as locker rooms and swimming pools, since the human papillomavirus can spread more easily in warm, humid environments. The virus enters the skin through small lesions or cracks on the sole of the foot.
Treatment of plantar warts
Treatment of plantar warts can be more complicated than that of other warts due to their location in a pressure area of the foot. Some treatment options include:
- Laser ablation: A laser is used to destroy the wart and remove infected cells.
- Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy can also be used on plantar warts, but multiple sessions may be needed to completely remove the wart.
- Topical keratolytics: These products They are applied directly to the wart to help dissolve the thick layer of skin that covers it.
It is important to properly care for plantar warts to prevent their spread to other areas of the skin and avoid discomfort when walking.
Flat warts
Flat warts, also known as juvenile warts, are small, flat growths that usually appear on the face, neck, hands, and forearms. . These warts are usually slightly lighter in color than the surrounding skin and may be slightly raised.
Flat warts are more common in children and adolescents, although they can also affect adults. It is thought that exposure to HPV in shared environments, such as swimming pools and gyms, may increase the risk of developing flat warts.
Treatment of flat warts
Treatment of flat warts may be similar to other warts, although it may vary depending on the location and size of the wart. Some treatment options include:
- Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid in gel or patch form can be applied to the wart to help dissolve it.
- Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy can also be effective in the treatment of flat warts.
- Laser treatments: In some cases, laser treatments to remove flat warts more quickly.
It is important to consult a dermatologist before starting any treatment for flat warts to determine which is the best option in each case.
Filiform warts
Filiform warts are long, thin warts that usually appear on the neck, face, eyelids and chin. These warts have a filament- or flap-like appearance, and may be flesh-colored or slightly darker than the surrounding skin.
Filiform warts are usually harmless and painless, but they can be a cause of aesthetic concern for some people. HPV is believed to be responsible for the appearance of filiform warts, although they can also be caused by minor skin lesions.
Treatment of filiform warts
Treatment of warts filiform can vary depending on the size and location of the wart. Some treatment options include:
- Electrocautery: A small electrode is used to burn the wart and remove infected cells.
- Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy can also be effective in the treatment of filiform warts.
- Surgical removal: In more complicated cases, you may choose to surgically remove the wart.
It is essential to consult a dermatology specialist to determine the best treatment for filiform warts, especially if they are located on sensitive areas such as the eyelids or chin.
Genital warts
Genital warts, also known as condylomas or venereal warts, are fleshy growths that appear in the genital and anal area. These warts are caused by specific strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) and are highly contagious through sexual contact.
Genital warts can appear as small bumps or can group together in clusters. In women, genital warts may appear on the vulva, vagina, cervix, or around the anus. In men, genital warts may appear on the penis, scrotum, or around the anus.
Treatment of genital warts
Treatment of genital warts should be supervised by a doctor. doctor specializing in sexual health, such as a urologist or gynecologist. Some treatment options include:
- Topical application of medications: Topical creams or solutions may be prescribed to apply directly to the genital warts.
- Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy can be used to freeze and destroy genital warts.
- Laser treatments: In more serious cases, treatments can be used with laser to remove genital warts.
It is important that people diagnosed with genital warts follow the instructions and treatments prescribed by their doctor to prevent the spread of HPV and reduce the risk of complications to long term, such as genital cancer.
In conclusion, warts are benign growths on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus. Knowing the different types of warts, their characteristics and treatment options is essential to properly address these skin lesions and prevent their spread. If you have a wart that concerns you, do not hesitate to consult a dermatologist to receive an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.