Warts (or verrucae) are a viral skin infection that affects the outer layer of the skin and is caused by strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts are a very common dermatological issue. This virus is highly contagious and can remain in a latent state in some individuals, meaning it causes no visible symptoms.
Although warts are benign, they can cause problems depending on their location.
Warts can appear in people of all ages, but they are more commonly seen in childhood, particularly between the ages of 12 and 16.
The HPV virus enters the body through direct contact—usually via a minor injury or a small crack in the skin—and triggers the proliferation of skin cells, resulting in the formation of benign skin overgrowths, known as warts.
Warts most commonly appear on the hands and soles of the feet, while the face and other parts of the body are affected less frequently.
Plantar warts (on the soles) often cause pain and may be mistakenly identified as corns or calluses. Warts are transmitted through direct skin contact with a lesion, either from another person or through autoinoculation—when the lesion comes into contact with another area of the patient’s own skin.
The clinical presentation of warts consists of nodules with an irregular surface. More specifically, they are flesh-colored papules measuring approximately 2–5 millimeters in diameter, which evolve into dome-shaped, hyperkeratotic growths. Their color usually ranges from gray to brown.
Black dots can be seen on the surface of the lesions, which correspond to thrombosed blood vessels. The lesions are typically solitary, but in some cases, multiple warts may appear together. Finally, if they develop in an area that has been injured, they may appear in a linear arrangement.
There are three types of warts:
1. Common warts are exophytic lesions and are typically found on the dorsal surfaces of the hands, fingers, around the nails, elbows, and knees.
2. Plantar warts are endophytic lesions (due to the pressure from body weight) and appear on the soles of the feet. They are painful when walking and are often mistaken for corns (calluses).
3. Flat warts appear as asymptomatic, numerous lesions, mainly on the face.
The treating dermatologist will make the diagnosis following a clinical examination and will determine the appropriate treatment method based on each patient’s individual case.
Treatment options for warts include CO₂ laser, Pulsed-Dye Laser, cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen, and electrocautery.
In addition to these methods, topical treatment can also be done at home using solutions containing salicylic acid or lactic acid, though special care must be taken when using them.
The course of warts is not easily predictable, and even after treatment, there is a possibility of recurrence requiring further management.
To avoid contracting warts, it is important to follow basic hygiene rules. Specifically:
Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly
Avoid letting your bare feet come into contact with sand or the areas around swimming pools
Use only your own personal hygiene items (e.g., towels)