Overview

Viral warts are benign skin growths caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Very common especially in children. Contagious through direct skin contact or contaminated surfaces. In Kuwait, communal pool and gym use increases transmission. Most warts self-resolve eventually, but treatment speeds resolution and reduces spread.

Symptoms

• Common warts: rough grainy bumps on hands/fingers with black dot centres
• Plantar warts: flat painful warts on soles of feet pushed inward by body weight
• Flat warts: small smooth flat-topped bumps in large numbers on face or legs
• Filiform warts: long narrow growths on face or neck
• Periungual warts: clusters around fingernails or toenails

Causes & Risk Factors

• HPV infects skin through tiny cuts or breaks
• Spread by: direct contact with warts, barefoot walking in wet communal areas, sharing towels/nail clippers
• Risk: weak immune system, skin damage or eczema, nail biting

Complications

• Spread to other body areas or people; painful plantar warts affecting walking
• Extensive warts in immunocompromised patients

Diagnosis

Clinical diagnosis by appearance. Dermoscopy for closer examination. Biopsy in unusual non-responding cases.

Treatment

• Salicylic acid: daily home application for weeks
• Cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen): in-clinic freezing, multiple sessions required
• Electrocautery, laser, surgical snipping
• Immunotherapy: candida antigen injections, imiquimod cream, intralesional bleomycin
• In children: many warts self-resolve within 2 years — weigh treatment against discomfort

Prevention

• Don't touch others' warts; wear flip-flops in communal showers and pools
• Don't share towels, shoes, or nail clippers; cover cuts and broken skin

Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation today