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Warts
What Are Warts?
Warts are common, non-cancerous skin growths caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). These growths can appear anywhere on the body and are most frequently found on the hands, feet, and face. While generally harmless, these growths can be unsightly, uncomfortable, and contagious, often spreading through direct contact or shared surfaces.
Types of Warts We Treat
At Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC, we diagnose and treat all types of warts, including:
- Common Warts: Rough, raised bumps that typically appear on the fingers, hands, and elbows.
- Plantar Warts: Found on the soles of the feet, these can be painful due to pressure from walking.
- Flat Warts: Smooth, flat-topped warts that often appear in clusters on the face, legs, or arms.
- Filiform Warts: Long, narrow projections that usually appear on the face, especially near the mouth, eyes, or nose.
- Periungual Warts: Develop under or around the fingernails and toenails, potentially affecting nail growth.
Who can get them?
These growths can affect people of all ages but are especially common in children, teens, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Because warts are caused by a virus, they can spread from one area of the body to another and from person to person.
Diagnosis & When to Seek Treatment
While some may resolve on their own over time, others persist, grow, or become painful. You should schedule an appointment with a dermatologist if:
- It is painful, bleeding, or changing in appearance.
- Over-the-counter treatments have failed.
- You have multiple warts, or they spread rapidly.
- You have a weakened immune system.
- It interferes with your daily activities or causes emotional distress.
Wart Treatment Options
At Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC, we offer safe and effective wart treatments tailored to your specific needs. Treatment options may include:
- Cryotherapy (Freezing): A common and effective treatment that uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the wart.
- Topical Medications: Prescription-strength treatments such as salicylic acid or immunotherapy agents.
- Electrosurgery & Curettage: Burning and scraping it away under local anesthesia.
- Immunotherapy: Stimulating the immune system to fight the virus, especially for difficult cases.
Our dermatologists will assess your skin, what type it is, and medical history to recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.
Prevention Tips
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent warts, these steps can reduce your risk:
- Avoid direct contact with warts—your own or others’.
- Keep feet clean and dry, and wear footwear in public showers or locker rooms.
- Avoid biting nails or cuticles.
- Don’t share personal items like towels, razors, or socks.
- Wash hands regularly, especially after touching a wart.
Schedule an Appointment
If you’re dealing with persistent or painful warts, we’re here to help. Our experienced dermatology team provides expert care with compassion and discretion. Contact us today to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient Northwest Arkansas locations.