Types of warts: Guide to identification and treatment
It’s common to develop warts at some point in life. Although they are generally benign, they can affect the appearance of the skin and, in some cases, cause discomfort. There are several types, ranging from common warts to plantar warts, as well as rarer forms like filiform or mosaic warts. Knowing how to recognize the different types of warts is essential to choose the appropriate treatment and prevent their spread.
1. Common wart: The most widespread
Common warts, also known as vulgar warts, mostly appear on the hands and around the nails. They are easy to recognize, presenting as small, rough, flesh-colored, or grayish bumps. This type of wart is often found on fingers, particularly in children and people who frequently handle objects. While they are often painless, they can become irritating if accidentally rubbed or caught.
Main characteristics:
- Granular and rough surface
- Size ranging from 1 to 10 mm
- Grayish or flesh-colored appearance
Treatment options: For common warts, topical treatments containing salicylic acid or cryotherapy, which involves freezing the wart, are often preferred.
2. Plantar wart: Pain under the feet
Unlike other types of warts, those that appear on the soles of the feet, known as plantar warts, can be very painful. The pressure from walking tends to push them deeper into the skin, making them difficult to eliminate. They are often mistaken for calluses, but their texture is rougher. Sometimes, they cluster together, forming “mosaic” warts, a group of small warts covering a larger area.
Distinctive signs:
- Located on the soles of the feet
- Pain while walking or standing
- Flattened appearance due to body pressure
Effective treatments: Treating plantar warts may require several sessions of cryotherapy or the application of specific products containing salicylic acid. In the case of an infected or stubborn wart, minor surgery may be considered.
3. Flat Wart: Discreet but Common
More discreet, flat warts often appear in clusters on the face, hands, or legs. These small growths are smoother and flatter, making them sometimes difficult to detect at first glance. They are very common in children and teenagers, and can also appear after shaving, particularly in men, as warts on the face.
Characteristics:
- Flat and smooth warts
- Often grouped in small clusters
- Color similar to that of the skin
Treatment approaches: For this type of wart, gentle treatments such as specific creams or laser treatments are preferred, especially for those located on sensitive areas like the face.
4. Filiform wart: A thin growth
Filiform warts, recognizable by their long, thin shape, often appear around the eyes, nose, or mouth. Although less common than other types, they can be particularly bothersome due to their visible location. These small growths have a slightly softer texture than common warts but can easily get caught on clothing or cause skin irritations.
Identification:
- Long and thin
- Mainly on the face and neck
- Flesh-colored or slightly darker
Recommended treatment: Surgical excision or cryotherapy are often used to remove these delicate warts, especially when they are found on sensitive areas of the face.
5. Mosaic wart: A cluster of warts
When several small plantar warts group together, they form a mosaic wart. This type of wart is particularly difficult to treat, as it covers a larger area of the foot and can become very painful if treatments are not properly adapted.
Characteristics:
- Cluster of warts on the sole of the foot
- Dense and compact appearance
- Frequent pain when walking
Treatment: Treatment often requires multiple sessions of cryotherapy or repeated applications of topical products. In some cases, laser or surgery may be considered.
How to prevent and effectively treat warts
Warts are transmitted through direct contact with an infected wart or contaminated surfaces, such as pool floors or public showers. To reduce the risk of developing them, it is advised to:
- Keep hands and feet clean and dry
- Avoid sharing towels or personal items
- Protect your feet in public places
- Refrain from touching your own or others’ warts to avoid spreading them
If you’re dealing with a stubborn or painful wart, it’s always best to consult a specialist. At Brisson Careccia Clinic, professionals are available to offer you tailored treatment for your condition, whether it’s a wart on the body, a plantar wart, or any other bothersome growth.
Conclusion
Identifying the different types of warts is crucial for selecting the right treatment and preventing their spread. From a wart on the finger to a plantar wart, each case requires special attention. If you’re looking for a quick and professional solution, Clinique Brisson Careccia offers advanced treatments to effectively remove these growths. Don’t wait to take care of your skin and regain comfort in your daily life..