Warts

Warts are small, benign (noncancerous) growths on the skin caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). There are many strains of HPV, all of which can infect and lead to a wart at any anatomical site. However, certain types of HPV tend to infect at particular sites on the body. The primary types of warts are:

Common warts (found on the fingers and hands)
Plantar warts (found on the soles of the feet)
Flat warts (found on frequently shaved surfaces such as the face and legs)
Genital warts (found on the genital area)

Less commonly, HPV infection can lead to disorders such as focal epithelial hyperplasia (Heck disease), epidermodysplasia verruciformis or plantar cysts. A small group of HPV viruses causing genital warts have the potential to cause cervical cancer and certain other cancers. Nongenital warts rarely progress to malignant (cancerous) tumours.

Warts are contagious and can be transmitted by direct or indirect contact, especially if the skin is broken. Genital warts are sexually transmitted and are extremely contagious. They should be brought to the attention of a medical professional. Treatment is available for warts, but can frequently fail, and warts often recur. However, many warts disappear spontaneously within a few years.