Warts appear on the skin as small, raised bumps that range in color from pale to dark. They are caused by a virus and can be spread easily from one person to another. While warts are not typically painful or serious, they can be unsightly and embarrassing. There are several different types of warts, and each one has its own unique characteristics. Here is a brief overview of the most common types of warts and their identifying characteristics.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
There are more than 100 different types of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), with some types causing warts on the skin. Some of the most common types of HPV-associated warts include common warts, plantar warts, flat warts, filiform warts, and genital warts.
Common Warts
Common warts typically appear as small, raised bumps that have a rough texture. They are most commonly found on the hands and fingers but can also appear on the feet, knees, and face. These warts range in size from just a few millimeters to several millimeters in diameter. The surrounding skin may appear red, white, or gray in color. Common warts are typically not painful, but they may be itchy or irritating.
Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are also known as foot warts, and they are most commonly found on the soles of the feet. These warts appear as small, raised bumps that may have a rough texture. They can vary in size from just a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. Plantar warts may have a hard, crusty appearance and can be painful when walking or standing. They may also become irritated or itchy.
Flat Warts
Flat warts are also known as plane warts, and they are most commonly found on the face, neck, and hands. These warts appear as small, flat bumps that have a smooth, rounded surface. They are usually less than 4 millimeters in diameter but can be larger. The surrounding skin may appear red, white, or gray in color. Flat warts are typically not painful, but they may be itchy or irritating.
Filiform Warts
Filiform warts are most commonly found on the face and neck. These warts appear as small, raised bumps that have a pointed or spiky appearance. They are usually less than 4 millimeters in diameter but can be larger. The surrounding skin may appear red, white, or gray in color. Filiform warts are typically not painful, but they may be itchy or irritating.
Genital Warts
Genital warts are also known as condylomata acuminata and they are most commonly found in the genital and anal areas. These warts appear as small, raised bumps that have a pink or flesh-colored appearance. They can range in size from just a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. Genital warts are typically not painful or itchy, but they can cause irritation and discomfort during sexual activity.
Is Molluscum Contagiosum a type of wart?
Molluscum contagiosum is a skin condition that is sometimes mistaken for a type of wart. It is caused by the Molluscum Contagiosum Virus (MCV) and causes small, raised bumps to appear on the skin. These bumps are typically flesh-colored, but they can appear pink, red, or brown in color. Molluscum contagiosum bumps are usually less than 2 millimeters in diameter and can have a smooth or waxy appearance. This skin condition is usually not painful or itchy, but it can cause irritation and discomfort.
How to Treat Warts and Molluscum Contagiosum?
Warts and Molluscum Contagiosum can usually be treated at home with over-the-counter products or home remedies. However, for more severe cases, it may be necessary to seek medical treatment. In some cases, warts and Molluscum Contagiosum will go away on their own without any treatment.
There are also several different types of medical treatments for warts and Molluscum Contagiosum, including cryotherapy, laser therapy, chemical peels, and immunotherapy. A healthcare professional can help a patient determine what treatment is best for their specific condition.
Conclusion
Warts and Molluscum Contagiosum are common skin conditions that are caused by a virus. There are several different types of warts, including common warts, plantar warts, flat warts, filiform warts, and genital warts. Molluscum Contagiosum is a separate skin condition caused by the Molluscum Contagiosum Virus (MCV). These skin conditions can usually be treated at home with over-the-counter products or home remedies, but more severe cases may require medical treatment.