The Facts
Warts are small growths on the skin caused by a virus known as human
papillomavirus (HPV). Despite their unpopularity, warts are extremely
common. It is estimated that approximately 25% of the population have a wart
at any one time. Luckily, most warts are harmless. However, since they're caused
by a virus, warts are very contagious.
Warts can grow anywhere on the skin. There are six different types:
- Common warts have a rather bumpy surface and appear most often on
the hands and fingers (of children, in particular).
- Flat or plane warts are small, smooth warts appearing in clusters
on the back of the hands, face or legs.
- Plantar warts are those appearing on the soles of the feet.
- Filiform warts form long, thin projections around the eyes, face
and neck.
- Periungual warts (common in people who bite their nails) occur under
and around the fingernails.
- Genital (venereal) warts are those appearing on the genitalia.
Keep in mind that some warts can become cancerous, and some skin cancers can
look like warts, so always get them checked by your doctor. Also remember, the
sooner a wart is treated, the easier it will be to destroy - so don't procrastinate.