Warts
Skin lesions caused by human papilloma virus (HPV). There are several types, with different presentations and locations — most can be evaluated online.
What are warts
Warts are benign skin lesions caused by different types of human papilloma virus (HPV). They appear in the form of small rough or smooth growths, of skin-like or slightly darker colour, and may appear either alone or in a group.
They are very common — especially in children and adolescents — and, although usually benign, they can be uncomfortable, painful (especially in the feet) or aesthetically disturbing. Most end up disappearing spontaneously after months to years, but treatment accelerates resolution and reduces the risk of contagion.
Types of warts
- Common warts — more common in hands, fingers and knees; rough surface.
- Planting warts — on the sole of the feet; often painful by pressure.
- Flat warts — small, smooth, frequent on the face and hands, especially in children and adolescents.
- Filiform warts — elongated, with a "filament" appearance, typically on the face and neck.
- Periunge warts — around the nails; they can affect nail growth.
contagion
Warts are the result of a viral infection and can be transmitted by direct contact with infected skin, with shared objects or wet floors (battles, swimming pools). The risk increases in skin areas with small wounds or macerated.
Each person has a different immune response to HPV, so the probability of developing warts after exposure varies greatly. In immunocompromised patients, warts tend to be more numerous, extensive and persistent.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is clinical by observing the lesion. In an online consultation, the dermatologist evaluates detailed photographs of the wart(s) and a questionnaire on the location, evolution and treatments already attempted.
In atypical lesions that do not respond to treatment, the dermatologist may recommend face-to-face evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and exclude other conditions.
Options for treatment
The treatment of warts depends on the type, location, number and age of the patient. There are several complementary approaches:
Topical application
Regular applications at home of specific formulations, indicated by the dermatologist. It requires persistence over weeks to months.
Dermatological procedures
There are several procedures performed in the office (creotherapy, among others) that are especially useful in lesions that do not respond to topical treatment. They're made in person.
Expectant surveillance
In some situations — small, few injuries in young children — it may be acceptable to wait for spontaneous resolution, avoiding uncomfortable treatments.
Talk to a dermatologist about your warts
No months-long wait for an in-person appointment. Each case reaches the dermatologist already prepared with photographs, history and questionnaire answers. Choose a report in under 24h or a booked video consultation.
Start consultationPrevention
- Avoid direct contact with other people's warts.
- Wear slippers in public locker rooms, swimming pools and gyms.
- Do not share towels, nail clippers or toiletries.
- Cover warts with bandages during physical activity.
- Keep the skin hydrated and take care of small wounds to reduce the risk of infection.
Frequently asked questions
Do warts disappear on their own?
In many cases yes, especially in children. The process can take months to years and is not predictable. Treatment is indicated when it causes discomfort, when it is numerous or when there is a risk of contagion.
Are plantar warts contagious?
Yeah. They are mainly spread on wet floors (pools, baths) and by direct contact. Wearing slippers and keeping the area dry reduces the risk.
Is online consultation used to evaluate warts?
Yeah. The photo evaluation is appropriate in most cases. The dermatologist defines the treatment plan and indicates whether a face-to-face procedure is necessary.
Can warts come back after treatment?
Yeah, there could be recurrence. The virus may remain on the skin in reduced amounts and warts may reappear at the same site or elsewhere. Monitoring reduces this risk.
Treat your warts with a dermatologist
Send detailed photographs and a dermatologist analyzes the case and sends treatment plan — on average 24 hours useful.
- From 60€
- Report on average within 24 working hours
- No travel