What are plantar warts. How are plantar warts diagnosed. What treatment options are available for plantar warts. When should you see a doctor for plantar warts. How can plantar warts be prevented. What are the long-term effects of untreated plantar warts. Who is most at risk for developing plantar warts.

Understanding Plantar Warts: Causes and Symptoms

Plantar warts are a common foot condition caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These warts typically appear on the heels or balls of the feet, where pressure is most intense. Unlike other types of warts, plantar warts grow inward due to the weight placed on the feet when walking or standing.

The primary symptoms of plantar warts include:

• Small, fleshy growths on the soles of the feet
• Grainy or rough texture
• Black pinpoints (often called “wart seeds”)
• Pain or tenderness when walking or standing
• Thickened skin over the affected area

Can plantar warts spread? Yes, plantar warts are contagious and can spread through direct contact or contaminated surfaces. The virus thrives in warm, moist environments, making public pools, locker rooms, and communal showers common transmission areas.

Diagnosing Plantar Warts: What to Expect at the Doctor’s Office

While many plantar warts can be self-diagnosed, a professional medical opinion is often necessary for proper treatment. During a consultation, a podiatrist or dermatologist will typically:

1. Examine the affected area visually
2. Conduct a physical examination to determine the extent of the wart
3. Possibly perform a biopsy if the diagnosis is uncertain
4. Use a dermatoscope for a closer look at the skin’s surface

Is a biopsy always necessary for diagnosing plantar warts? No, in most cases, a visual examination is sufficient. However, if the growth appears unusual or doesn’t respond to initial treatments, a biopsy may be recommended to rule out other conditions.

Treatment Options for Plantar Warts: From Home Remedies to Medical Interventions

The treatment of plantar warts varies depending on their severity and the patient’s overall health. Options range from over-the-counter solutions to professional medical procedures:

Over-the-Counter Treatments

• Salicylic acid preparations
• Duct tape occlusion
• Cryotherapy kits

Professional Medical Treatments

• Prescription-strength salicylic acid
• Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen
• Laser therapy
• Electrocautery
• Surgical excision
• Immunotherapy

How effective are home remedies for treating plantar warts? While some people find success with home treatments, professional medical interventions generally offer higher success rates and faster results, especially for stubborn or recurring warts.

When to Consult a Podiatrist: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

While many plantar warts resolve on their own or with home treatment, certain situations warrant professional medical attention. Consider seeing a podiatrist if:

• The wart is painful or interferes with daily activities
• Home treatments have been ineffective after several weeks
• The wart is spreading or multiplying
• You have diabetes or a weakened immune system
• The wart shows signs of infection (redness, swelling, or discharge)
• You’re unsure if the growth is a wart or another skin condition

Should you attempt to remove a plantar wart yourself? It’s generally not recommended to attempt self-removal of plantar warts, as this can lead to infection or scarring. Professional treatment ensures safe and effective removal.

Prevention Strategies: Minimizing Your Risk of Plantar Warts

While it’s not always possible to prevent plantar warts, certain precautions can significantly reduce your risk:

1. Keep feet clean and dry
2. Wear sandals or water shoes in public showers and pool areas
3. Avoid walking barefoot in public spaces
4. Don’t share shoes or socks with others
5. Change socks daily, especially if feet tend to sweat
6. Treat any cuts or abrasions on the feet promptly

Does having plantar warts once increase the likelihood of getting them again? While having plantar warts doesn’t guarantee future occurrences, it may indicate a susceptibility to the virus. Maintaining good foot hygiene and following prevention strategies can help reduce the risk of recurrence.

The Role of Podiatrists in Treating Plantar Warts

Podiatrists play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of plantar warts. These foot specialists are uniquely qualified to:

• Accurately diagnose plantar warts and differentiate them from other foot conditions
• Recommend the most appropriate treatment based on the individual case
• Perform professional treatments such as cryotherapy or surgical removal
• Provide guidance on prevention and aftercare
• Monitor progress and adjust treatment plans as needed

Why might a podiatrist be preferable to a general practitioner for treating plantar warts? Podiatrists specialize in foot conditions and have extensive experience treating various types of warts. They are often better equipped to handle complex cases and can provide more specialized care.

Complications and Long-Term Effects of Untreated Plantar Warts

While plantar warts are generally benign, leaving them untreated can lead to various complications:

1. Increased pain and discomfort
2. Spread of the virus to other areas of the body
3. Development of clusters of warts (mosaic warts)
4. Changes in gait or posture to avoid pain
5. Potential for secondary infections

Can untreated plantar warts lead to more serious health issues? In rare cases, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems, untreated warts can lead to more widespread HPV infections or secondary bacterial infections. Regular monitoring and timely treatment are crucial for preventing such complications.

Special Considerations: Plantar Warts in High-Risk Individuals

Certain groups of people may be at higher risk for developing plantar warts or experiencing complications:

• Children and teenagers
• Athletes, especially swimmers and gymnasts
• People with weakened immune systems
• Individuals with diabetes
• Those with a history of plantar warts

For these high-risk groups, special care and attention are necessary:

1. Regular foot checks
2. Prompt treatment of any suspicious growths
3. Consistent use of preventive measures
4. Close monitoring by a healthcare professional

How does diabetes affect the treatment of plantar warts? Diabetes can complicate the treatment of plantar warts due to potential circulation and nerve issues in the feet. Diabetic individuals should always consult a podiatrist for safe and appropriate treatment options.

The Psychological Impact of Plantar Warts

While often considered a minor condition, plantar warts can have significant psychological effects on those affected:

• Embarrassment or self-consciousness about foot appearance
• Anxiety about spreading the virus to others
• Frustration with persistent or recurring warts
• Limitations on activities due to pain or treatment requirements

Addressing these psychological aspects is an important part of comprehensive care. Healthcare providers should be sensitive to these concerns and provide support and reassurance throughout the treatment process.

How can patients cope with the emotional impact of plantar warts? Open communication with healthcare providers, joining support groups, and focusing on treatment progress can help manage the emotional aspects of dealing with plantar warts.

Emerging Treatments and Research in Plantar Wart Management

The field of plantar wart treatment is continually evolving, with new approaches being developed and studied:

1. Photodynamic therapy
2. Intralesional immunotherapy
3. Pulsed dye laser treatment
4. Topical immunomodulators
5. HPV vaccines for prevention

These emerging treatments offer hope for more effective and less invasive options in the future. However, more research is needed to fully establish their efficacy and safety profiles.

Are there any promising breakthroughs on the horizon for plantar wart treatment? While research is ongoing, immunotherapy approaches show particular promise in treating resistant warts by stimulating the body’s immune response against the HPV virus.

Navigating Insurance Coverage for Plantar Wart Treatment

Understanding insurance coverage for plantar wart treatment can be challenging. Here are some key points to consider:

• Coverage often depends on the treatment method chosen
• Some insurers may consider certain treatments cosmetic and not cover them
• Prior authorization may be required for some procedures
• Out-of-pocket costs can vary widely

Patients should check with their insurance providers and healthcare professionals to understand coverage options and potential costs before proceeding with treatment.

How can patients minimize out-of-pocket expenses for plantar wart treatment? Discussing treatment options and their costs with healthcare providers, exploring in-network care options, and considering payment plans or financial assistance programs can help manage expenses.

The Importance of Patient Education in Plantar Wart Management

Effective management of plantar warts relies heavily on patient education. Key areas of focus include:

1. Understanding the nature of HPV and how it spreads
2. Recognizing early signs of plantar warts
3. Learning proper foot hygiene techniques
4. Understanding treatment options and their pros and cons
5. Knowing when to seek professional medical help

Healthcare providers play a crucial role in educating patients about these aspects, empowering them to take an active role in their foot health.

How can patients stay informed about the latest developments in plantar wart treatment? Regularly consulting with healthcare providers, following reputable medical websites, and participating in patient education programs can help patients stay up-to-date on advancements in plantar wart management.

When to See a Doctor for Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are bumpy growths that occur on the heels or balls of the feet. They can grow in clusters or as a single wart and are caused by the HPV virus. The virus can enter the body through cuts or weak spots on the bottoms of your feet. Plantar warts can be treated by a variety of options and may go away on their own. Some warts, however, may be difficult to treat and can return without proper treatment by a podiatrist experienced with skin disorders.   

When to See Our Grapevine Podiatrist  

A plantar wart is a small, fleshy growth that may look like a corn or a callus. Some signs that you may have a plantar wart include:

• Appearance that is gray or brown in color
• A center with a black pinpoint spot
• Hard thickened skin over the spot
• Pain or tenderness when standing or walking

In some cases, plantar warts can go away on their own. Since plantar warts are caused by the HPV virus and are contagious, they can spread from person to person. If you have the following signs, contact our Grapevine podiatrist for an examination:

• Bleeding
• Changes in appearance or color
• Recurrence after treatment or is multiplying
• Redness or warmth
• Pain with daily activities

In addition, if you have a condition such as diabetes or poor circulation or have a weakened immune system, consult with our Grapevine podiatrist for an evaluation of the wart.

Treating Plantar Warts

Depending on the severity of the plantar wart, it may be treated at home. For proper treatment recommendations, see our Grapevine podiatrist. Our experienced foot specialists can examine your feet and determine if the spot is definitely a plantar wart and recommend treatment options based on the extent of the condition.

Common treatment options for plantar warts include the following:

• Trimming and medication. A podiatrist can trim or shave away dead skin from a plantar wart then apply a topical medication. In addition, an oral antifungal or antibacterial medication may be prescribed by your doctor.
• Cryosurgery.  A wart can be frozen off by our Grapevine podiatrist using cryosurgery with a liquid nitrogen solution. This method will destroy the tissue of the wart.
• Injection. A podiatrist can inject medication directly into the wart to get rid of it.
• Laser treatments. Laser treatments can target the wart to eliminate it and promote healing.
• Surgery. A wart can be dissected and surgically removed by a podiatrist using a variety of techniques.

Contact Our Grapevine Podiatrist for Diagnosis and Treatment Today!

If you have plantar warts, contact Alliance Foot & Ankle Specialists for a consultation with our Keller or Grapevine podiatrist. To schedule an appointment, fill out our convenient contact form below, or give us a call at 817.481.4000 today.

Warts: Diagnosis and treatment

Diseases & conditions

• 
  
  Coronavirus Resource Center
  
• 
  
  Acne
  
• 
  
  Eczema
  
• 
  
  Hair loss
  
• 
  
  Psoriasis
  
• 
  
  Rosacea
  
• 
  
  Skin cancer
  
• 
  
  A to Z diseases
  
• 
  
  A to Z videos
  

• DIY acne treatment
• How dermatologists treat
• Skin care: Acne-prone skin
• Causes
• Is it really acne?

• Types & treatments
• Childhood eczema
• Adult eczema
• Insider secrets

• Types of hair loss
• Treatment for hair loss
• Causes of hair loss
• Hair care matters
• Insider secrets

• What is psoriasis
• Diagnosis & treatment
• Skin, hair & nail care
• Triggers
• Insider secrets

• What is rosacea
• Treatment
• Skin care & triggers
• Insider secrets

• Types and treatment
• Find skin cancer
• Prevent skin cancer
• Raise awareness
• Español

Featured

How Natalie cleared her adult acne

Natalie tried many acne products without success. Find out how a board-certified dermatologist helped Natalie see clear skin before her wedding.

JAK inhibitors: A newer type of medication

JAK inhibitors are helping patients with alopecia areata, eczema/atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and vitiligo. Here’s what you need to know.

Everyday care

• 
  
  Skin care basics
  
• 
  
  Skin care secrets
  
• 
  
  Injured skin
  
• 
  
  Itchy skin
  
• 
  
  Sun protection
  
• 
  
  Hair & scalp care
  
• 
  
  Nail care secrets
  

• Basic skin care
• Dry, oily skin
• Hair removal
• Tattoos and piercings

• Anti-aging skin care
• For your face
• For your skin routine
• Preventing skin problems

• Bites & stings
• Burns, cuts, & other wounds

• Itch relief
• Poison ivy, oak & sumac
• Rashes

• Shade, clothing, and sunscreen
• Sun damage and your skin
• Aprenda a proteger su piel del sol

• Your hair
• Your scalp

• Nail care basics
• Manicures & pedicures

Featured

Practice Safe Sun

Everyone’s at risk for skin cancer. These dermatologists’ tips tell you how to protect your skin.

Relieve uncontrollably itchy skin

Find out what may be causing the itch and what can bring relief.

Darker Skin Tones

• 
  
  Skin care secrets
  
• 
  
  Hair care
  
• 
  
  Hair loss
  
• 
  
  Diseases & Conditions
  

• Acne
• Dark spots
• Dry skin
• Light spots
• Razor bumps

• Caring for Black hair
• Scalp psoriasis
• Weaves & extensions

• Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia
• Frontal fibrosing alopecia
• Hairstyles that pull can cause hair loss

• Acanthosis nigricans
• Acne keloidalis nuchae
• Hidradenitis suppurativa
• Keloid scars
• Lupus and your skin
• Sarcoidosis and your skin
• Skin cancer
• Vitiligo
• More diseases & conditions

Featured

Fade dark spots

Find out why dark spots appear and what can fade them.

Untreatable razor bumps or acne?

If you have what feels like razor bumps or acne on the back of your neck or scalp, you may have acne keloidalis nuchae. Find out what can help.

Cosmetic treatments

• 
  
  Your safety
  
• 
  
  Age spots & dark marks
  
• 
  
  Cellulite & fat removal
  
• 
  
  Hair removal
  
• 
  
  Scars & stretch marks
  
• 
  
  Wrinkles
  
• 
  
  Younger-looking skin
  

Featured

Laser hair removal

You can expect permanent results in all but one area. Do you know which one?

Scar treatment

If you want to diminish a noticeable scar, know these 10 things before having laser treatment.

Botox

It can smooth out deep wrinkles and lines, but the results aren’t permanent. Here’s how long botox tends to last.

Public health programs

• 
  
  Skin cancer awareness
  
• 
  
  Free skin cancer screenings
  
• 
  
  Kids’ camp
  
• 
  
  Good Skin Knowledge
  
• 
  
  Shade Structure grants
  
• 
  
  Skin Cancer, Take a Hike!™
  
• 
  
  Awareness campaigns
  
• 
  
  Flyers & posters
  
• 
  
  Get involved
  

• Lesson plans and activities
• Community grants

Featured

Free materials to help raise skin cancer awareness

Use these professionally produced online infographics, posters, and videos to help others find and prevent skin cancer.

Dermatologist-approved lesson plans, activities you can use

Free to everyone, these materials teach young people about common skin conditions, which can prevent misunderstanding and bullying.

Find a dermatologist

• 
  
  Find a dermatologist
  
• 
  
  What is a dermatologist?
  
• 
  
  FAAD: What it means
  
• 
  
  How to select a dermatologist
  
• 
  
  Telemedicine appointments
  
• 
  
  Prior authorization
  
• 
  
  Dermatologists team up to improve patient care
  

Featured

Find a Dermatologist

You can search by location, condition, and procedure to find the dermatologist that’s right for you.

What is a dermatologist?

A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating the skin, hair, and nails. Dermatologists care for people of all ages.

Plantar wart treatment in St. Petersburg

1 review

Skorikova Elena Vyacheslavovna

Dermatologist

Experience 13 years

Medical center “Medicus” on Koroleva

Komendantsky prospect (2.9 km)

Udelnaya (5.0 km)

Pionerskaya (5.0 km)

6 reviews

Free Xenia Vitalievna

Dermatologist,

venereologist,

pediatric dermatologist

Experience 22 years

Highest category

Children’s clinic “M + Clinic”

Dybenko Street (1. 9 km)

Bolshevikov Avenue (3.3 km)

Ladozhskaya (5.8 km)

Bolshevikov Avenue (1.9 km)

Dybenko Street (3.0 km)

Ladozhskaya (3.8 km)

10 reviews

Kamyshanskaya Yuliya Anatolyevna

Podiatrist-esthetician

Experience 29 years

Clinic “She-Aesthetic”

Dostoevskaya (357 m)

Vladimirskaya (686 m)

Mayakovskaya (720 m)

Vosstaniya Square (2.0 km)

Alexander Nevsky-1 Square (2.0 km)

Mayakovskaya (2.0 km)

10 reviews

Orlova Snezhana Borisovna

Dermatologist,

venereologist,

cosmetologist,

podiatrist (podiatrist)

Experience 16 years

Albatross Medical Center on Oleko Dundicha

Kupchino (979 m)

Dunayskaya (2. 2 km)

Zvezdnaya (2.9 km)

Lenin Square (422 m)

90 004 Vyborgskaya (2.0 km)

Gorkovskaya (2.4 km)

25 reviews

Oksana Tsarenko

Dermatologist,

venereologist,

pediatric dermatologist

Experience 7 years

Clinic “Duncan”

Pionerskaya (1.4 km)

Komendantsky prospect (1.8 km)

Udelnaya (2.8 km)

10 reviews

Syropyatov Viktor Aleksandrovich

Dermatologist,

venereologist,

pediatric dermatologist

Experience 13 years

Clinic “MIK”

Clinic “Karelia”

Primorskaya (1. 7 km)

Vasileostrovskaya (4.4 km)

Sports (4.9 km)

Forest (3.4 km)

Courage Square(3.4 km)

Vyborgskaya (4.0 km)

12 reviews

Rybin Andrey Vladimirovich

Trichologist,

venereologist,

dermatologist,

pediatric dermatologist,

mycologist

Experience 16 years

PhD

Medical center “Medlife”

Zvezdnaya (696 m)

Kupchino (1.9 km)

Moskovskaya (3.1 km)

Novocherkasskaya (705 m)

9000 4 Ladozhskaya (2.1 km)

Alexander Square Nevsky-1 (2. 1 km)

Novocherkasskaya (196 m)

Alexander Nevsky-1 Square (1.6 km)

Alexander Nevsky-2 Square (1.8 km)

Dybenko street (1.4 km)

Prospekt Bolshevikov (3.3 km)

Lomonosovskaya (4.7 km)

Kolesnikova Polina Igorevna

Aesthetic Podiatrist

Experience 9 years

“Osteomed” on Polikarpova

Medical Center “PodoProf” (formerly “Podologiya”)

Pionerskaya (1.0 km)

Komendantskiy prospect (2.1 km)

Udelnaya (2.3 km)

Baltiyskaya (1.1 km)

900 04 Institute of Technology(1.2 km )

Pushkinskaya (2.1 km)

23 reviews

Marchenko Olga Andreevna

Dermatologist,

cosmetologist,

trichologist

Experience 7 years

Clinic “SMT” on Rimsky-Korsakov 87

Clinic “SMT” on Moskovsky 22

Sadovaya (2. 2 km)

Baltiyskaya (2.2 km)

Sennaya Square (2.3 km)

Institute of Technology (467 m)

Garden long distance (852 m)

Sennaya Square (946 m)

Dybenko Street (691 m)

Bolshevikov Avenue (1.3 km)

Ladozhskaya (4.2 km)

8 reviews

Udovydchenkova Elena Alekseevna

Podiatrist-esthetician

Experience 37 years

Clinic “EuroMedica” on Veterans

Veteranov Avenue (758 m)

Leninsky Prospekt (1.3 km)

Avtovo (2.7 km)

39 reviews

Eliseeva Tamara Vladimirovna

Podiatrist-esthetician

Experience 32 years

Quantum Satis Medical Center on Zvezdnaya

Zvyozdnaya (627 m)

Kupchino (2.5 km)

Moscow (2. 7 km)

9 reviews

Raymova Natalia Sergeevna

Dermatologist,

venereologist,

trichologist

Experience 24 years

“Eva clinic”

Petrogradskaya (519 m)

Chkalovskaya (1.6 km)

Gorkovskaya (1.8 km)

Lenin Square (598 m)

9000 4 Chernyshevskaya (2.6 km)

Vyborgskaya (2.7 km)

Ladozhskaya (5.5 km)

Novocherkasskaya (6.9 km)

6 reviews

Krylova Ekaterina Vladimirovna

Dermatologist,

trichologist

Experience 21 years

“Eva clinic”

Petrogradskaya (519 m)

Chkalovskaya (1. 6 km)

Gorkovskaya (1.8 km)

10 reviews

Doroshenko Anna Sergeevna

Cosmetologist,

dermatologist

Experience 10 years

Cosmetology “Lix” on Butlerova

Academic (1.3 km)

Polytechnic (2.3 km)

Muzhestva Square (2.8 km)

Veterans Avenue (3.4 km)

900 04 Leninsky Prospekt (3.8 km)

Avtovo (4.3 km)

5 reviews

Drayuk Evgeny Stanislavovich

Pediatrician,

dermatologist,

pediatric dermatologist

Experience 5 years

Children’s “Euromed” on the 1st Nikitinskaya

Children’s “Euromed” on Varshavskaya

Udelnaya (2. 0 km)

Pionerskaya (2.2 km)

Komendantsky prospect (2.8 km)

The cost of a doctor’s visit to your home is determined by the distance from the clinic.
Check the price with the administrator of the clinic.

Moskovskaya (726 m)

Victory Park (2.0 km)

Leninsky Prospekt (2.9 km)

The cost of a doctor’s visit to your home is determined by the distance from the clinic.
Check the price with the administrator of the clinic.

14 reviews

Kholodilova Natalya Aleksandrovna

Dermatologist,

venereologist,

trichologist

Experience 17 years

PhD

“Eva clinic”

Petrogradskaya (519 m)

Chkalovskaya (1. 6 km)

Gorkovskaya (1.8 km)

Petrogradskaya (656 m)

900 04 Gorkovskaya (1.5 km)

Vyborgskaya ( 2.1 km)

9 reviews

Rysakova Marina Valerievna

Dermatologist,

cosmetologist,

pediatric dermatologist

Experience 26 years

Highest category

Diona Medical Center on Kollontai

Bolshevikov Avenue (1.9 km)

Dybenko Street (2.7 km)

Ladozhskaya (4.3 km)

Devyatkino (Murino) (2.9 km)

Civil Avenue( 5.1 km)

Kozhukhar Karina Olegovna

Dermatologist

Experience 5 years

Clinic “Derma Expert”

Chernyshevskaya (1. 2 km)

Mayakovskaya (1.6 km)

Dostoevskaya (1.7 km)

Alina Smirnova

Cosmetologist,

dermatologist

Experience 7 years

AlfaMed in Kudrovo

Dybenko Street (2.4 km)

Bolshevikov Avenue (4.0 km)

Lomonosovskaya (6.1 km)

Chernyshevskaya (1.0 km)

Mayakovskaya (1.5 km)

Dostoevskaya (1.9 km)

5 reviews

Voronova Tamara Vasilievna

Podiatrist-esthetician

Experience 32 years

Clinic “She-Aesthetic”

Dostoevskaya (357 m)

Vladimirskaya (686 m)

Mayakovskaya (720 m)

types, treatment, removal, solutions and ointments

Human papillomavirus (HPV) reproduces its DNA in the cells of the surface layer of the skin, which explains the changes in the skin. HPV is non-oncogenic and oncogenic (can cause cancer).

Types of warts

Common (vulgar) warts

Common (vulgar) warts occur on the fingers and toes, around the nail fold and under the nails, on the back of the hands and palmar surface ² . They often occur in childhood and adolescence. Infection with the virus occurs through microtrauma of the skin by contact.

These warts look like rough, firm nodules with thickened normal or pink skin, usually less than 1 cm in size.

Diagnosis in typical cases does not cause problems for the specialist and is based on the visual characteristics of the elements and their localization. Dermatoscopy (study of a skin area using a dermatoscope device) allows you to see the lobular structure and abnormal thickening of the upper layer of the skin. With an atypical clinical picture, for example, due to improper self-treatment, a skin biopsy with a histological examination of the element may be required.

Plantar warts

Plantar warts, occurring on the soles or toes, are a common problem seen by dermatologists and can occur at any age.

Represented by single or multiple hemispherical elements of various sizes, covered with horny masses, under which there is a crater-like depression. Given the localization of plantar warts, in addition to the aesthetic problem, they cause pain when walking.

When diagnosing, plantar warts must be distinguished from calluses, keratoderma (excessive stratum corneum), squamous cell carcinoma, and other diseases. The doctor will diagnose “plantar warts” in the presence of the above symptoms and, if necessary, perform dermatoscopy.

Flat warts

Flat warts can appear on the skin of the face, body, back of the hands, less often on the external genitalia. More common in childhood and adolescence.

As a rule, flat warts are multiple, rounded with a smooth surface, no larger than 1 cm in diameter. The color varies from flesh to yellow-brown. Over time, they can resolve on their own even without treatment. However, when scratching, flat warts can be spread to nearby areas of the skin. Then the elements will be arranged linearly.

Flat warts must be distinguished from brown moles (melanocytic nevi) and papillomas. Only a doctor can correctly diagnose. A skin biopsy with histological examination may be required to clarify the type of skin lesion.

Anogenital warts

Genital warts

Genital warts usually appear at the junction of the mucosa and skin. This is the zone of the external genital organs, the perianal region, the mucous membrane of the urethra, rectum, the conjunctiva of the eyes, the mucous membrane of the mouth. Infection occurs through sexual contact.

Genital warts are single formations on a thin stalk, and outgrowths, consisting of merging nodules, outwardly resemble a cauliflower or cockscomb. The color of genital warts varies from pale pink to bright red. Sometimes there is itching.

Diagnosis is based on an external examination of the elements of the rash, detection of virus DNA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), histological examination of the removed elements. In the presence of genital warts, it is recommended to be screened for sexually transmitted infections, since maceration (wrinkling) of the skin with secretions from the genital tract in STIs is a predisposing factor for the appearance of genital warts. With extensive rashes, it is necessary to exclude acquired immunodeficiency, to be tested for HIV infection.

Buschke-Levenshtein’s giant condyloma

Buschke-Levenshtein’s giant condyloma is more common in young and middle-aged people. Caused by human papillomavirus types 6 and 11.

Affects the skin of the vulva, perianal area, groin skin. Represents a large (up to 10 cm) three-dimensional element on a wide base protruding above the skin. On the surface there are papillary outgrowths and sticky discharge. Visually resembles a cauliflower. A distinctive feature of Buschke-Levenshtein’s giant condyloma is rapid growth, relapses even after surgical removal, can transform into squamous cell skin cancer.

For the detection of the disease, data on the history of the disease (rapid growth), a characteristic clinical picture, PCR data for the detection of DNA of the HPV virus types 6 and 11, and the results of a histological examination are important. Histological examination will exclude another diagnosis – squamous cell carcinoma.

Bowenoid papulosis and Bowen’s disease

Elements of the mucous membranes are represented by spots, nodules of red-orange or brownish color. The surface of the elements is smooth, but can also be velvety. When the process is localized on the skin, the rashes are gray or brown ³ .

At the same time, the growth of foci is uneven, the size of the elements is from a few millimeters to 8-12 cm, crusts may appear in some places of formation. Up to 80% of cases transform into squamous cell carcinoma ² . Histological examination is necessary for diagnosis.

Povidone iodine

Characteristics and properties of povidone iodine. What is povidone-iodine used for? Instructions for use of the solution, ointment, suppositories Betadine ^® with povidone-iodine.

More

Seborrheic warts (seborrheic keratosis)

Seborrheic keratosis is a benign skin tumor of epithelial cells (cells of the surface layers of the skin) of non-viral nature . It usually occurs in old age on any part of the body. It is characterized by slow development from a yellow or brown spot to a plaque up to 1-2 cm thick with a bumpy surface and pronounced hyperkeratosis, massive dark brown or black crusts. A dermatologist performs diagnostic dermatoscopy in order to distinguish seborrheic keratosis from basalioma, melanoma, actinic keratosis and other diseases. In doubtful cases, a skin biopsy with a histological examination of the removed element may be required. Since this formation has nothing to do with viral warts, antiviral drugs are not used for treatment. Removal by liquid nitrogen, laser, radio wave destruction, surgical excision is shown.

Methods for the treatment of warts

Testing for syphilis, hepatitis B and C is recommended before starting treatment and choosing a method of removal ⁴ .

In the presence of a large number of viral warts (more than 5 elements), it is recommended to consult an immunologist ⁴ . For the treatment of anogenital warts, a consultation with a urologist, gynecologist, proctologist (with a widespread process in the perianal zone), an oncologist (with suspicion of giant condyloma Buschke-Levenshtein) is indicated ³ .

How to remove viral warts

Electrocoagulation ⁴

Cryosurgery with liquid nitrogen ⁴

900 04 Laser removal in layers 4

Radio wave method ⁴

1. 5% application solution of zinc chloropropionate in 50% 2-chloropropionic acid ⁴

Combination of acids and copper nitrate trihydrate. Means are used pointwise on the element with a special spatula on the skin treated with alcohol ⁴

Topical wart removers

• Imichimod cream is a local immunomodulator. Indicated for the treatment of genital warts of the vulva and perianal region. The agent is used every other day, a thin layer is applied once a day (at night) to anogenital warts. Course no more than 16 weeks ³ . The agent is not prescribed for pregnant and lactating women ⁵ .
• Combination of salicylic, lactic acids and polidocanol ⁶ belongs to the group of keratolytics. Used for viral warts, calluses, genital warts. Apply locally 1 drop of the drug to the wart 1-2 times a day, the duration of treatment is selected individually. The drug softens the elements, which improves the process of removal by physical methods.
• Combination of phenol, metacresol ⁷ belongs to the group of local necrotizing agents. Cauterizes warts, genital warts, dry calluses, keratomas. Use pointwise, re-treatment is carried out after 6-8 days, up to 5 sessions are allowed per course.

Care after wart removal and treatment of possible complications

With physical or chemical methods of wart removal, there is a risk of recurrence (recurrence) of the viral wart/condyloma and the addition of a secondary infection.

During the destruction (destruction) of a wart/condyloma, a crust forms at the site of removal within a few days, which cannot be removed. While the wound is not covered with a crust, it is necessary to carry out daily disinfecting treatment.

During the removal of warts by cryodestruction (liquid nitrogen), on the first day, a bubble with transparent contents or with an admixture of blood may form at the site of removal. The bubble is pricked with a clean sterile needle from a syringe and the liquid is drained, after which the area is treated with an antiseptic, covered with a medical plaster.

Betadine® preparations for the treatment of skin and mucous membranes after removal of warts

In the study of Marinkin I.O. it has been shown that the use of the antiseptic Betadine ^® , which has a wide spectrum of action and antiviral activity, increased the effect of treatment after removal of warts: the likelihood of infection and recurrence of papillomavirus infection of the mucous membrane of the vagina and cervix decreased. Betadine ^® preparations are used in the form of solution, ointment or vaginal suppositories ⁹ , which indicates a high safety profile of Betadine ^® .

Betadine Solution ^® is a modern antiseptic without alcohol content. The active substance povidone-iodine has an antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal effect, destroys the simplest unicellular microorganisms. Povidone-iodine is practically not absorbed into the bloodstream ⁹ , which indicates a high safety profile of Betadine ^® .

Immediately and for several days after removal of warts/condylomas, a 10% undiluted solution of Betadine 9 is suitable for antiseptic treatment0544® . Unlike alcohol-containing antiseptics of the old generation, the product disinfects without an unpleasant burning sensation and does not permanently stain the skin.

Instruction

Where can I buy Betadine® solution?

Buy

Buy

Buy

Or

Find the nearest pharmacy , the simplest unicellular microorganisms.

Betadine ^® ointment is spread over the surface of the wound, then bandaged. Dressings can be done 2-3 times a day ⁹ . The course is selected individually.

Betadine Vaginal Suppositories ^® can be given prophylactically twice a day for a week before vaginal removal ⁹ .

Prevention of the appearance of warts

The occurrence of vulgar, plantar warts is promoted by microtrauma and abrasions of the skin, walking barefoot in public places (pool, sauna, gym, etc.), increased sweating of the skin of the feet, reduced immunity.

To prevent the occurrence of venereal warts, barrier contraception is used, and casual sexual contacts are excluded. It is necessary to examine and treat not only the patient, but also his sexual partner. To prevent diseases caused by oncogenic types of HPV and to reduce the risk of cancer of the cervix, vulva, anogenital cancer, vaccination is carried out for men and women under the age of 45 years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are warts contagious?

Warts are a disease caused by viruses, so they can be transmitted.

Should warts be removed?

The effectiveness of various methods of removal reaches 50-94%, in some cases warts are able to disappear on their own1. However, warts can be “spread” throughout the body, for example, when combing. Plantar warts often produce screenings (child warts). Therefore, doctors recommend removing them.

Can warts be removed at home?

Yes, it is possible. You must make an appointment with a specialist. A dermatologist, after examination, may recommend a remedy for removing warts at home.

Moshkova Elena Mikhailovna

Dermatovenereologist, head of the KDO for the provision of paid services, St. Petersburg State Budgetary Institution of Healthcare “City Dermatovenerologic Dispensary”, St. Petersburg

Read on the topic

Ointment based on iodine 905 97

Ointment based on iodine: mechanism of action, scope. Ointment Betadine® based on povidone-iodine for the treatment of various skin diseases.

More

Povidone iodine

Characteristics and properties of povidone iodine. What is povidone-iodine used for? Instructions for use of the solution, ointment, suppositories Betadine ^® with povidone-iodine.

Read more

Pyoderma: treatment, ointments, creams, remedies

Causes of pyoderma, symptoms, types and methods of treatment. Prevention of pustular diseases.

More

References

1. Ivanov OL “Skin and venereal diseases” // Shiko; 2006, Moscow.
2. Butov Yu.S., Skripkin Yu.K., Ivanova O.L., “Dermatovenereology” National leadership // GEOTAR Media 2017, Moscow.
3. Clinical recommendations “Anogenital (venereal) warts”// “Russian Society of Dermatovenereologists and Cosmetologists” Russian Association of Coloproctologists 2020.
4. Clinical guidelines “Viral warts”// Russian Society of Dermatovenerologists and Cosmetologists 2017
5. Instructions for medical use Imichimod, radar.