How Do Dermatologists Treat Warts ?
Although most warts are harmless, dermatologists do treat them. Warts can be very unsightly, and, in the case of plantar warts, very uncomfortable. The type of wart treatment performed usually depends on the type of wart being treated.
Electrodessication and curettage-A procedure where the dermatologist scrapes and burns the wart to get rid of it.
Excision-Warts may be excised if they are very painful or other wart treatment options have failed.
Prescription medications-There are several prescription medications that can be used to treat warts of all types, including salicylic acid and imiquimo
These warts develop a flat top.
Genital warts-warts
Genital warts-warts that are spread through sexual contact in the genital area.Periungual warts-warts
Periungual warts-warts that develop around and under fingernails and toenails.Plantar warts-Plantar
Plantar warts-Plantar warts grow on the plantar surface (the sole) of the foot infecting the superficial layer of the skin. Instead of growing out of the skin, they grow into the skin, causing pain when pressure is applied, like with walking. The skin thickens to a callus-like growth, and can become tender when pressure is applied (ie, when you walk).
What Causes Warts ?
Warts are noncancerous skin growths caused by an infection in the topmost layer of the skin by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are most prevalent in children and young adults, but can happen at any age. It is presumed that just about everyone will suffer from at least one wart at some point in his/her lifetime. Risk factors for warts include: young age, use of public showers, weakened immune systems from medications or illnesses, breaks or injuries to the skin (such as in nail biting), and direct contact with warts from other people.
Warts Treatment
It’s best to get plantar warts treated by a professional to prevent the spread of the virus and spare yourself and your family
What Are Warts
Warts are noncancerous skin growths caused by an infection in the topmost layer of the skin by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
How To Prevent Warts
They are most prevalent in children and young adults, but can happen at any age
Canthardin-Another common wart treatment includes “painting” the wart with cantharidin, causing a blister to form under the wart. The wart can then be scrapped away by the dermatologist.
Understanding Cantharidin
Cantharidin is a natural vesicant, meaning it causes blistering when applied to the skin.Considerations and Precautions
While cantharidin is generally safe and effective for wart removal, certain precautions should be observed.Post-Treatment Care
After cantharidin application, it's essential to follow dermatologist-recommended post-treatment care instructions.
Cryotherapy-The most common wart treatment
Cryotherapy-The most common wart treatment for adults and older children, it is a very easy procedure done in the dermatology office with little discomfort. Repeat treatments every few weeks are usually necessary to treat the wart.
Cryotherapy-The most common wart treatment
Cryotherapy-The most common wart treatment for adults and older children, it is a very easy procedure done in the dermatology office with little discomfort. Repeat treatments every few weeks are usually necessary to treat the wart.
Types of Warts :
Common warts-are rough
Common warts-are rough, flesh-colored bumps that develop on the hands, fingers, elbows and knees.black pinpoints
Sometimes these warts develop black pinpoints, which are clotted blood vessels trapped in the wart.Flat warts-warts
Flat warts-warts that develop in areas of shaving like on the arms, face, and thighs. Like their name suggests,
How Are Warts Diagnosed ?
A dermatologist can diagnose a wart by looking at it. Rarely does a dermatologist need to perform a skin biopsy for diagnosis. A skin biopsy may be done if the dermatologist suspects that the wart may be something else, like a skin cancer.
Clear Skin For You DANIELLE LECLAIR, NP
Danielle LeClair, NP graduated from Boston University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology. Her passion in nursing began while working in skilled nursing facilities very early in her nursing career. Soon thereafter she received her Master of Science in Nursing from the MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston, Massachusetts. Danielle’s professional interests in treating dermatologic conditions was inspired by a preceptorship in dermatology while attending nursing school.
RECENT NEWS
VIEW ALL
Biotin for Hair Growth – Benefits and Hidden Side Effects in Females: A Dermatologist’s Perspective
February 11, 2025effects of vitamin D deficiency on skin
January 11, 2025Genital Wart Removal Near Me
October 8, 2024Eczema Treatment
October 8, 2024Skin conditions
September 30, 2024