The team of expert dermatologists at Blue Ridge Dermatology Associates specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Warts. Warts may appear on the skin as small, flesh-like bumps. They are caused by a virus known as the Human Papillomavirus, or HPV for short. Due to the ease in which warts spread, treatment is usually recommended. However, some warts may eventually resolve on their own.

Types of Warts

Different strains of the HPV virus cause different types of warts to form. The three most common types of warts are:

  • Common Warts: Transmitted by touch, this small growths are most commonly found on fingers and hands.
  • Plantar Warts: This type of wart is found on the heels or balls of the feet and is especially common in children.
  • Flat Warts: Usually appearing in clusters, these warts have smooth, flat tops and are most commonly found on the face and neck.

Treatment Methods For Warts

Depending on your case and the type of wart, the dermatologists at Blue Ridge Dermatology may recommend several different treatment methods. Keep in mind that it may take several visits to eliminate warts and that not all warts respond to therapy.

It is important to note that the wart virus, HPV, is not curable. Regardless of the type of therapy, you are likely to continue to get new warts and experience the recurrence of old warts.

Common Warts

  • Liquid Nitrogen: This is the most frequently used treatment for common warts in adults. It is painful during the application and discomfort may persist for 5 – 30 minutes. Sometimes following treatment a scar or discoloration may appear. Keep in mind that you should not have liquid nitrogen treatment if you have Raynaud’s disease.
  • Salicylic acid: Available in 17% over the counter, this liquid is applied daily.
  • Aldara: This form of topical cream is applied daily for months. Its purpose is to boost the immune system to help fight off the wart virus.
  • Tagamet: Taken by mouth for 3 months, this medication may also boost the immune system to help fight off the wart virus.
  • Surgical removal: If other treatment options fail to produce results, your dermatologist may recommend a surgical procedure to remove the warts

In children, topical therapies are the prefered treatment method. The dermatologists at Blue Ridge Dermatology will gladly answer any questions you may have in regards to treatment methods for warts.

Plantar Warts

  • Acid Plaster: The most frequently used method of treatment for a plantar wart is an acid plaster. The foot is wrapped for a week, after which time you will return for reevaluation. It may take multiple visits to treat a wart.
  • Liquid Nitrogen: In certain areas such as the toes, liquid nitrogen is sometimes used to remove the wart.
  • Salicylic acid: Available in 17% over the counter, this liquid is applied daily.
  • Aldara: This form of topical cream is applied daily for months. Its purpose is to boost the immune system to help fight off the wart virus. However, this treatment does not work well on the thick skin on the bottom of the foot..
  • Surgical removal: If other treatment options fail to produce results, your dermatologist may recommend a surgical procedure to remove the warts

Redness and tenderness may occur following treatment. Please contact our office if you feel that the treatment area may be infected.

Flat Warts

  •  Topical 17% salicylic acid (Occlusol, Duofilm, Compound W): This liquid is applied daily to irritate the warts.
  • Retin A: This topical treatment is applied daily to irritate the warts.
  • Aldara: This treatment cream is applied each night to irritate the warts and may be used for up to 4 months.
  • Tagamet: This oral medication is taken daily for 3 months to boost the immune system and help fight off the wart virus.
  • Liquid nitrogen: This method of treatment may cause discoloration or scarring and is only recommended with other treatment options fail to produce results.

Due to the location of flat warts, commonly found on the face and neck, the goal is to avoid any discoloration and scarring.

Tips to Prevent the Spread of Warts

Warts are contagious and susceptible to spreading. Spreading may occur person to person, or on your own body. Avoid spreading warts by following the tips below:

  • Do not shave over warts
  • Coverage with a bandage
  • Wash your hands with soap and water on a regular basis
  • Avoid rubbing, picking, and scratching at the wart
  • Keep your feet dry
  • Do not share razors, towels, or other personal care items
  • Boost your immune system
  • Use a condom when participating in sexual intercourse

Schedule an Appointment Today

If you are suffering from warts, schedule an appointment with the experts at Blue Ridge Dermatology. Our team of dermatologists will make it their priority to have you living a wart-free life in no time.