How do you get warts and what can you do to get rid of them?
Warts are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), and there are more than 200 known types. The most common way to contract warts is through touch or contact with a person or animal infected with the virus, although warts may also survive on inanimate objects for an unknown amount of time. Warts can penetrate through small abrasions or cracks in the skin of an exposed individual and can easily spread once present. There is no known prevention of development of warts once exposed. Warts can appear in different forms, ranging from thick, rough flesh-colored lesions to flat-topped ones, so see a dermatologist if you are unsure. There are different types of treatments available. They commonly include caustic acids, tretinoin, cryotherapy, electrosurgery, surgery, certain lasers and chemotherapeutic topical agents. Most topical treatments can be done at home, but resistant warts may require several visits to a dermatologist.
- Roy B. Blumenstrauch, M.D.
Diplomate, American Board of Dermatology; Member, South Bay Independent Physicians Medical Group Inc.