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Viral Warts

Viral Warts - What it is

Warts are a common viral infection of the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are more than 100 subtypes of HPV.

Warts occur most commonly in children and young adults. It can, however, occur at any age.

viral warts conditions and treatments

Viral Warts - Symptoms

Common warts most commonly occur on the hands and around the nails. They may occur as single or multiple lesions, and appear as flesh-coloured nodules with a rough surface and small pit-point blood vessels. They may bleed if the surface is scratched or pared.

Flat warts occur commonly on the face, neck, arms, and legs. They are usually seen as smooth, flesh-coloured, pink or brown, flat-topped papules.

Plantar warts occur on the soles of the feet and toes and may be painful on pressure (eg. walking). It may be difficult to differentiate from corns (calluses).

Ano-genital warts occur around the genitals and are uncommon in children. Although most often transmitted sexually in adults, this is rarely the case in children, when it can occur through non sexual contact.

Viral Warts - How to prevent?

Viral Warts - Causes and Risk Factors

Warts may be transmitted between individuals by skin-to-skin contact or from the environment (eg. swimming pool decks, change room floors). They can spread from one area of the body to another within the same patient. It may take one to six months for warts to appear after initial infection.

Viral Warts - Diagnosis

Laboratory tests of HPV infection are usually unnecessary as the diagnosis is usually clinical.

Viral Warts - Treatments

Watchful waiting: In children, warts may resolve spontaneously. However, this may take up to two years to occur.

  • Topicals:
    • Retinoids or imiquimod: These may be used for flat warts.
    • Duofilm or verrumal: These may be more effective when combined with occlusion with duct tape.
  • Cryotherapy with or without paring.
  • Electrosurgery and lasers: Rarely used in children as they can cause significant pain.
  • Immunotherapy: These may be applied or injected into the warts to induce an immune reaction. Application is performed in the clinic.

Even when the wart appears “cured”, there is a 20% risk of recurrence, either at the same or other site(s).

The information above is also available for download in pdf format.

Viral Warts - Preparing for surgery

Viral Warts - Post-surgery care

Viral Warts - Other Information

The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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