Warts and wart removal
Warts are common, non-cancerous skin growths that can affect individuals of any age and any part of the body. They often appeared as rough and raised bumps. They are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). While generally harmless, they can be bothersome and sometimes painful. Warts, if left untreated, can resolve on their own. However, this process can take several years before the body becomes fully immune to the virus. There are a variety of treatment options that can be utilized to recruit the body’s immune system. These treatment regimens can be used in isolation or in combination.
What are Warts?
Warts are benign skin growths caused by certain strains of HPV. They can appear anywhere on the body and are classified into several types:
- Common warts: Typically found on hands and fingers, characterized by a rough, grainy appearance.
- Plantar warts: Found on the soles of the feet, often painful due to pressure.
- Flat warts: Smaller and smoother, usually appearing on the face, arms, or legs.
- Filiform warts: Long and slender, often appearing on the face or neck.
- Periungual warts: Found under and around fingernails and toenails, can affect nail growth.
How Do Warts Spread?
HPV spreads through direct contact with a wart or through contact with surfaces that have been in contact with HPV. This can include shared towels, razors, or other personal items. Warts can also spread through self-inoculation to another part of the body.
How Do I Remove Warts?
In order to fully clear a wart, it frequently takes multiple treatments. These treatments include:
In-Office Treatments
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen, causes inflammation that triggers the immune system to respond to the wart virus.
- Electrosurgery and Curettage: Heating the wart with an electric current and then scraping it off.
- Laser Treatments: Using laser energy to destroy wart tissue.
- Minor Surgery: Surgically removing the wart.
- Cantharidin Application: Applying a blistering agent to create an inflammatory response.
- Bleomycin: Medication that is injected into the wart and targets rapidly dividing cells.
Home Treatments
- Salicylic Acid: Over-the-counter treatments that gradually peel away the wart.
- Prescription Medications: Topical treatments like retinoids or antiviral drugs.
How Do I Prevent Warts?
Preventive Measures
- Wear sandals in communal areas like pools and locker rooms.
- Avoid direct contact with warts, including your own.
- Keep your skin clean and dry to reduce the risk of HPV infection.
Lifestyle Tips
- Maintain healthy habits to strengthen your immune system.
- Regularly visit a dermatologist for skin check-ups.
Why Choose Utah Valley Dermatology?
Comprehensive Care
Utah Valley Dermatology, located in Lehi, Utah, offers efficient skin care by a caring staff and fantastic dermatologists. Our office treats all aspects of dermatology, including skin, hair, and nails. We specialize in treating acne, cancer screening, and cosmetic procedures. Dr. David Myers, a board-certified local dermatologist, is passionate and knowledgeable about all aspects of cosmetic, surgical, and medical dermatology.
Convenient Locations
Utah Valley Dermatology serves patients along the Wasatch front and throughout the state of Utah, with locations in Lehi, Saratoga Springs, and Provo. Our central location in Lehi is just off the highway near the Lehi Roller Mills.
Wart removal is essential for preventing their spread and recurrence. Utah Valley Dermatology offers professional and effective wart treatment options. Seeking help from Utah Valley Dermatology ensures safe and efficient removal, helping you maintain healthy skin.
