WARTS

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Warts are caused by a virus, a small organism that grows on the skin and mucous membranes. They are not dangerous, and never become cancerous.

Warts are contagious. They can be spread to other parts of the body by picking or scratching. They can also be spread to other people. Children "catch" them more readily than adults. They do not disappear by "magic treatments" such as rubbing potatoes, aloe, milkweed juice, etc., but some warts disappear spontaneously.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF WARTS

All warts are caused by the same virus, thought they may look different, depending upon the location. Plantar warts (on the plantar surface on the sole of the foot) are flattened by walking on them. Warts on the back of the hand project above the skin level.

THE TREATMENT

Sometimes no treatment will be suggested -- if the warts appear to be going away, or if they are infected.

I usually treat warts with liquid nitrogen "cryosurgery" or with electric cautery.

Home treatment consisting of medicated drying soaps or creams, acids in gels, plastic liquids or pads may be recommended, in combination with office therapy.

WART RESEARCH

Research in wart prevention and treatment is in progress. If we can stop polio and measles, we can stop warts -- some day.

If you have any questions about your warts, please call at any time.