Wart Diagnosis and Removal in London

What are warts?

Warts are common skin lesions caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), of which there are over 100 different types. They are non-cancerous but can be persistent and spread by touch. Warts occur when the virus infects the top layer of skin, usually entering through small cuts or abrasions. The infection causes rapid growth of skin cells, resulting in raised or flattened lumps that vary in appearance depending on the type and location.

Types of warts

• Common warts (verruca vulgaris): Rough, raised bumps usually found on hands, fingers, and knees.
• Plantar warts: Hard, sometimes painful growths on the soles of the feet; may appear as clusters (mosaic warts).
• Flat warts: Smooth, flat-topped, flesh-coloured lesions often seen on the face, neck, or legs.
• Filiform warts: Long, narrow growths typically around the eyes, mouth, or nose.
• Periungual warts: Appear around fingernails or toenails, often causing nail distortion.
• Genital warts: Sexually transmitted warts affecting genital or anal regions, caused by specific HPV strains.

Causes and risk factors

Warts are caused by direct infection with HPV, which thrives in warm, moist environments. The virus is highly contagious and spreads through skin-to-skin contact or contact with contaminated surfaces.

• Direct contact: Touching someone with a wart.
• Indirect contact: Walking barefoot in communal showers, gyms, or swimming pools.
• Microtrauma: Cuts or broken skin make infection easier.
• Immunity: Children, teens, and immunocompromised individuals are more susceptible.

Symptoms of Wart

Warts vary in appearance depending on the type, but common features include:

• Rough, raised surface
• Small black dots (clotted capillaries) visible inside
• Pain or tenderness when pressure is applied (especially plantar warts)
• Clustered growths in some cases

Wart Diagnosis

Warts are usually diagnosed clinically based on their appearance. In uncertain cases, especially for genital or persistent lesions, a biopsy may be performed to rule out other skin conditions such as keratoses, calluses, or skin cancers.

Complications

• Spread to other areas of the skin
• Pain when located on weight-bearing areas
• Nail deformities with periungual warts
• Psychological distress due to appearance
• In rare cases, transformation into precancerous lesions in immunocompromised patients

Treatment options for Wart

Not all warts need treatment. Some disappear spontaneously within 1–2 years, especially in children. However, many persist and require intervention if they are painful, spreading, or cosmetically concerning. Treatments aim to destroy the wart tissue or stimulate the immune system to fight the virus.

• Topical salicylic acid: Applied daily to gradually remove wart tissue.
• Cryotherapy: Freezing with liquid nitrogen; effective but may need multiple sessions.
• Laser therapy: Vaporises wart tissue using CO₂ or pulsed-dye laser.
• Surgical removal: Curettage or cautery; usually for resistant warts.
• Immunotherapy: Topical treatments (imiquimod, contact sensitisers) to stimulate immune clearance.
• Cantharidin: A blistering agent sometimes used in resistant cases.

Home remedies and myths

Many home remedies, such as duct tape, apple cider vinegar, or garlic, are commonly tried. While some may help by irritating the skin and triggering immune response, most lack strong scientific evidence. Professional medical treatment remains the most effective approach.

Prevention

• Avoid direct contact with warts (yours or others’).
• Wear sandals in communal showers or swimming pools.
• Don’t share towels, socks, or shoes.
• Keep hands and feet dry.
• Avoid picking or scratching warts to prevent spread.

Your first visit — what to expect

1. History: Assessment of duration, spread, and previous treatments.
2. Examination: Identifying the type and severity of wart(s).
3. Discussion: Options for treatment, including likelihood of recurrence.
4. Procedure: Cryotherapy, topical treatment, or laser may be started at the first visit.
5. Follow-up: Monitoring response and adjusting treatment plan.

Reviewed by: Dr Mohammad Ghazavi, Consultant Dermatologist
Skinhorizon Clinic, 4 Clarendon Terrace, Maida Vale, London W9 1BZ
Last reviewed: 22 August 2025