Warts

Understanding Warts: Causes, Types, and Effective Treatments

Warts are non-cancerous skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which infects the top layer of the skin. These growths are characterized by small, raised bumps on the skin’s surface that can vary in appearance—from smooth and flat to rough and cauliflower-like. Warts can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the hands, feet, and face.

Warts are highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with an infected person or surface. They may also spread from one part of the body to another through scratching or touching. While warts are generally harmless, they can be bothersome, painful, or aesthetically displeasing, prompting many individuals to seek treatment.

At Keystone Dermatology Partners, our dermatologists are skilled in diagnosing and treating all types of warts, including common warts, plantar warts, flat warts, and filiform warts. We offer a variety of effective treatments, such as cryotherapy (freezing), topical medications, or laser therapy, to remove warts and help prevent their recurrence. Our goal is to provide clear and smooth skin for every patient.

Schedule an appointment with Keystone Dermatology Partners today to discover your personalized treatment plan for managing and eliminating warts.

There are a variety of different types of warts. They can be distinguished by their appearance and where they form on the body.

Some of the different types of warts are:

Common Warts:

• Found on hands and fingers
• Small flesh-colored bumps
• Rough in texture with small black dots

Plantar Warts:

• Commonly found on the soles of the feet
• Flat in appearance
• Grow in clusters
• Can cause pain and discomfort

Flat Warts: 

• Can grow on any area of the body
• Often form on children’s faces
• Small and smooth in appearance
• Typically occur in large numbers

Filiform Warts: 

• Long and thin in appearance
• Tend to grow around the mouth, nose, and eyes
• Grow rapidly

While common warts are not dangerous, many people choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons. Warts may also be a sign of underlying medical conditions such as issues with the immune system. There are a variety of treatments for warts. The first step is to have the issue properly diagnosed by a dermatologist.

Treatment for warts can include:

• Prescription-strength medications
• Cryotherapy (freezing)
• Curettage (shaving)
• Salicylic acid
• Electrosurgery
• Surgical excision

Contact Keystone Dermatology Partners in Philadelphia to schedule a consultation with one of our highly skilled dermatologists. They can properly diagnose your condition and provide you with the care you need to eliminate your warts.