A papilloma is a usually benign tumor of the skin or mucous membranes that grows outwardly in finger-like protrusions. It is frequently used to refer to infections caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can cause papillomas of the skin, genitals, mouth, eyes and throat, and, in some women, cervical cancer.
Papillomas can form throughout the body. Warts, which are papillomas on the skin, can be found on the hands, feet and knees. They may or not be painful, can grow singly or in clusters, and can be raised or flat, rough or smooth.
Your provider at AllPhases Dermatology will tailor treatment to you. Potential treatments include:
- Topical medications
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen
Warts FAQs
Warts are contagious and can be spread through direct contact with the wart or indirectly through contact with surfaces or objects that have been touched by someone with a wart.
In some cases, warts may go away on their own without treatment, but this can take months or years. However, warts that are painful or spreading should be treated to prevent them from worsening or spreading to others.
To reduce the risk of getting warts, it’s important to practice good hygiene, avoid touching warts, wear shoes in public showers and pool areas, and avoid sharing personal items like towels or razors.
