What are warts?

Warts are skin growths that result from the skin being infected with a human papilloma virus. There are many different types of human papilloma viruses that can cause warts. Some cause warts on the hands, some on the feet and some in the genital areas.

What are the symptoms of warts?

Warts may appear as a single bump or a series of bumps on the skin. They may have a “cauliflower” appearance. Warts are generally painless unless they are irritated.

How soon do symptoms appear?

Warts may appear weeks to months after the skin becomes infected.

How are warts spread?

Person-to-person spread is the main way warts are spread. The viruses that cause warts are generally spread by direct contact with the wart. Some warts, such as plantars warts, can be caused by exposure of the skin to contaminated environmental surfaces such as public shower floors.

When and for how long is a person able to spread the disease?

This is not known. It is suggested that as long as a person has visible sores he or she is able to spread the disease.

How is a person diagnosed?

This will depend on the type of wart a person has; some warts can be diagnosed through visual inspections, while others require laboratory methods. As always, consult a health-care professional if you are concerned you have warts.

What is the treatment?

Treatment and the need for treatment will vary. Warts can by removed by freezing, chemical or surgical means. Genital warts also can be treated with creams that enhance the immune response to the virus.

Warts may not always need to be treated. You and your health-care provider can decide that together.

Does past infection make a person immune?

No.

Should children or others be excluded from day care, school, work or other activities if they have warts?

Exclusion is not necessary since warts very rarely result in medical complications. However, people with warts on their hands and who work in patient-care settings should make sure the warts are covered.

What can be done to prevent the spread of warts?

People with warts on their hands and other areas of their body should make sure the warts are covered to prevent spreading it to others.