Caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), warts are growths that appear on the skin. While cosmetically unappealing, these growths are benign (non-cancerous). Considered contagious, warts can spread through contact. Although warts are typically not a cause for medical concern, many men and women in the Los Alamitos area opt to have them removed for aesthetic purposes and to not potentially spread them to others. More common on hands, warts can develop anywhere on the body. They are often skin-colored in appearance and rough to the touch. However, some warts may be darker and smooth in appearance.
At Coastal Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, we specialize in the removal of multiple skin imperfections, such as cysts, moles, and more. Contact us today to have your skin properly diagnosed and treated!
How Do Warts Spread?
Contact with HPV is what spreads warts. It’s possible to get the infection from touching somebody who has them or to spread it by touching yourself and spreading it further. However, most people don’t automatically get warts from contact. It’s also possible to spread warts without knowing it since they develop slowly under the skin before becoming visible. Related symptoms and signs of warts may include:
- An unusual bump
- Dark dots in the center of the bump
- A growth that causes pain or discomfort when touched
- Itching or general discomfort around the infected area
How Are Warts Evaluated and Diagnosed?
Warts can usually be identified by a visual examination. If there is a doubt that a growth is a wart, a biopsy may be done to confirm it. There’s usually no need for further testing unless it’s determined to be another type of growth other than a wart. During your consultation with our experienced medical team, we will thoroughly examine your skin and discuss your treatment options.
What Treatments Are Available?
There are multiple ways to remove warts, such as through freezing or excision, and the treatment option that is best for you may depend on the size and location of the wart as well as patient preference. During your visit to our office, we will address all of your questions regarding safe and effective wart removal and offer you guidance so that you do not continue to develop warts in the future or pass them onto others through contact.
Contact Coastal Dermatology and Plastic Surgery today to have your warts properly evaluated and treated!
