What is a wart explained
Warts are small, raised skin lesions caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. They can appear on hands, feet, and other exposed areas. Warts may be rough, have a callused surface, or appear flat. The term verruca is often used interchangeably with wart.
Warts arise when HPV infects the top layer of skin and triggers rapid growth. Some people clear infections naturally, while others develop persistent lesions. Children and athletes may be more susceptible. Transmission occurs through direct contact or shared surfaces.
Because HPV strains vary, warts can look different by type. Common types include common warts, plantar warts, and flat warts. Diagnosis is usually clinical, sometimes supported by dermatoscopy. Persistent or painful warts deserve professional evaluation.
Common wart locations
Warts show up most often on hands and feet, where the surface endures friction. Foot warts, or plantar warts, grow into the sole and can be painful. Hand warts often appear on fingers and knuckles. Flat warts tend to appear on the face, neck, and arms.
Warts in exposed areas are common in adults and children alike. Periungual warts grow around nails and can affect function. Genital warts involve different HPV strains and require medical care. Location helps guide treatment choice and prognosis.
Korean dermatology clinics routinely document diverse lesion sites and presentations. Advances in imaging and histology aid precise assessment in clinic. Understanding location informs whether more aggressive therapy is needed. A clinician can tailor plans for plantar versus periungual warts.
Non surgical treatments
Treatment choices range from topical agents to procedural therapies within dermatology. Salicylic acid helps soften keratin and gradually remove the lesion. Occlusion methods and duct tape have historical use but mixed results. Regular application with patient adherence improves outcomes.
Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze wart tissue and provoke an immune response. Multiple sessions may be required, and pain or blistering can occur. As healing progresses, the wart tissue sloughs off. Cryotherapy remains a standard option in many dermatology practices.
Laser therapy offers precise removal with minimal damage to surrounding skin. CO2 or Nd:YAG lasers can reduce recurrence when combined with proper assessment. In high-skill clinics, laser is performed by trained dermatologists. Laser choices are tailored to wart type, location, and patient preference.