HPV-Related Skin Conditions – Consultant Diagnosis & Treatment in London

Understanding HPV and its effects

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus with over 150 known types. While many infections are harmless, some strains affect the skin or mucous membranes, leading to warts, verrucae, and in rare cases precancerous or cancerous changes. HPV-related conditions vary in appearance and severity, making expert assessment important.

Causes and transmission

HPV is primarily transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. Common warts and verrucae are spread by contact with contaminated surfaces, while genital HPV is usually sexually transmitted. A weakened immune system, cuts in the skin, or frequent exposure to shared environments such as swimming pools increase risk of infection.

Types of HPV-related conditions

• Common warts: Rough, raised growths on the hands, knees, or face.
• Plantar warts (verrucae): Flat or raised lesions on the soles of the feet, often painful when walking.
• Flat warts: Small, smooth lesions often seen on the face or legs.
• Genital warts: Soft growths in the genital or anal area caused by sexually transmitted HPV types.
• Precancerous lesions: Abnormal patches of skin or mucosa, often requiring biopsy to confirm diagnosis.

Who is at risk of HPV-Related Skin Conditions?

HPV-related conditions affect people of all ages. Children and teenagers are more prone to common warts and verrucae, while sexually active adults may develop genital warts. People with weakened immune systems, such as transplant recipients, are at greater risk of persistent or severe HPV infection.

HPV-Related Skin Conditions Diagnosis

Diagnosis is usually made through clinical examination. In uncertain cases or when precancerous change is suspected, a biopsy may be recommended. Early detection ensures prompt treatment and reduces risk of complications.

HPV-Related Skin Conditions Treatment options

While some warts resolve on their own, many persist and need active treatment. Options include:

• Cryotherapy: Freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen.
• Topical treatments: Prescription creams or solutions to gradually remove lesions.
• Laser therapy: Precise removal for resistant warts.
• Surgical removal: For large or symptomatic lesions.
• Photodynamic therapy: Used for selected precancerous HPV-related lesions.

Prevention and aftercare

Good hygiene, avoiding sharing personal items, and wearing footwear in communal areas can reduce risk of infection. The HPV vaccine provides protection against several high-risk strains. After treatment, keeping the immune system strong and attending follow-up checks helps prevent recurrence.

Why choose Skinhorizon?

At Skinhorizon, our dermatologists provide expert diagnosis and treatment of HPV-related conditions, from common warts to complex precancerous lesions. We use evidence-based therapies tailored to your individual needs in a safe, CQC-regulated environment.

Your first visit — what to expect

1. Assessment: Thorough examination and, if necessary, biopsy to confirm diagnosis.
2. Treatment plan: Discussion of options, benefits, and risks tailored to your case.
3. Procedure: Cryotherapy, topical application, or removal as required.
4. Follow-up: Review to monitor healing and detect any recurrence.

Reviewed by: Dr Mohammad Ghazavi, Consultant Dermatologist
Skinhorizon Clinic, 4 Clarendon Terrace, Maida Vale, London W9 1BZ
Last reviewed: 20 August 2025