Skin condition

Warts

Treatment of warts

Warts (Latin: verrucae) are small, benign growths of the skin in the upper layer of the skin (epidermis). They mainly occur on the fingers, soles of the feet, face or genital area. They are not necessarily contagious.

Species & Origins

Viral warts: Warts are manifested by a selective thickening of the cornea and are the result of an infection with the human papillomavirus. It is assumed that infection in public showers, swimming pools and similar facilities is the main cause.

Genital warts (condylomas): also known as genital warts, can also be caused by strains of the human papillomavirus in the genital and anal area. These warts often appear as a result of unprotected sexual intercourse and affect both men and women.

Krill: also known as molluscum contagiosum, is common in childhood and is thought to be caused by the smallpox virus. Due to their infectious nature, they can spread to various parts of the body because of the associated itching.

Age-related warts: These are non-contagious, benign, genetically predisposed warts. They develop due to cornification disorders of the skin and not due to a viral infection. Visually, they can resemble moles and become somewhat rougher and larger over time.

Diagnosis

Due to their typical clinical appearance, warts can be quickly assessed by the dermatologist, which can be easily confirmed with the help of a dermatoscope.

If genital warts are present, a sample should be taken to determine the viral strain of the human papillomavirus, as malignant changes can occur in rare cases.