Warts Specialist
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Elevation Dermatology
Medical & Cosmetic Dermatology & Dermatopathology located in Wheat Ridge, CO
Most warts are harmless and go away on their own, but sometimes warts can be embarrassing and cause discomfort, not to mention contagious. At Elevation Dermatology we are skilled dermatologists who can safely remove unsightly warts, so they no longer make you uncomfortable or self-conscious. To learn more, call the office at Elevation Dermatology in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, or schedule an appointment online today.
Warts
What are warts?
Warts are benign growths in the top layers of the skin that the human papillomavirus (HPV) causes. Warts are contagious and spread through direct contact, or by contact with something the wart has touched.
Warts may appear as a bump or a rough spot, but they can also be smooth and flat, and they are usually skin-colored, brown, or grayish black.
What are the different types of warts?
HPV, which has more than 150 different viral strains, causes all types of warts. The different strains cause warts on different parts of the body and fall into the following categories:
Common warts
Common warts typically occur on the fingers and hands and appear as small, skin colored bumps that are rough to the touch.
Plantar warts
Plantar warts appear on the bottoms of the feet, usually as a small, rough growth around the base of the toes or the heel. Plantar warts can be painful when you walk and stand because your weight pushes the growth into the soft tissue of your foot.
Genital warts
HPV can be transmitted sexually, causing warts in and around the genitals. Some strains of HPV are responsible for cervical cancer in women.
Do I need to see a doctor for warts?
Most warts are harmless and will disappear on their own, but you may wish to have them removed if they bother you, or you don’t like their appearance.
You should always seek treatment from a qualified dermatologist if you aren’t sure if your growths are actually warts, or if you have any of the following conditions:
- Painful warts
- Warts that change in appearance or color
- Warts that don’t respond to treatment
- Numerous warts that appear around the same time
If you suspect you have genital warts, it’s important to see a doctor for evaluation.
How does a dermatologist treat warts?
Treatment varies depending on factors including the type of wart, size, and your personal health history. We At Elevation Dermatology customizes your treatment plan to the details of your individual diagnosis.
Treatment options may include:
- Topical, prescription-strength medications
- Cryotherapy
- In-office topical applications
- Intralesional Injections
A minor surgical procedure, performed in the office, is another option to remove the abnormal tissue caused by the virus.
To learn more about wart removal, call Elevation Dermatology or schedule an appointment online.
