Types of Warts: Identification and Treatment

Warts are non-cancerous skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear as bumps or rough growths in different parts of the body and may be skin-colored, dark, smooth, or spiky. Warts are contagious and can be painful or asymptomatic, depending on their type and location.

Common Types of Warts

Common Warts (Verruca Vulgaris)

• Appear as rough, grainy bumps
• Can be grey, flesh-colored, or have a cauliflower-like texture
• Usually found on the hands, fingers, and around nails
• May have black dots due to clotted blood vessels
• Spread through direct skin contact or contaminated surfaces

Plantar Warts

• Occur on the soles of feet, making walking painful
• Grow inward due to pressure, causing discomfort
• Two types:
  • Myrmecial-type: Deep, calloused, and tender to touch
  • Mosaic-type: Clustered warts that grow on the surface and are less painful
• Risk factors include walking barefoot in public areas like pools and locker rooms

Flat Warts

• Small, smooth, slightly raised warts
• Commonly found on the face, arms, and thighs
• Typically occur in clusters of 20 to 200 warts
• Spread easily through shaving or broken skin

Filiform Warts

• Long, thread-like warts that grow on the face, neck, eyelids, or lips
• Highly contagious and can spread quickly
• Often mistaken for skin tags
• Can cause itching or irritation if accidentally scratched

Genital Warts

• Caused by sexually transmitted HPV infection
• Appear on the genitals, inner thighs, anus, or oral mucosa
• May be small, flesh-colored bumps or clusters resembling cauliflower
• Can lead to cervical and other cancers, requiring immediate medical attention

Periungual Warts

• Occur around fingernails and toenails
• Begin as tiny growths and can spread under the nail, causing discomfort
• More common in individuals who bite their nails
• Can distort nail shape and increase infection risk