Table of Contents(toc)
What are HPV warts?
Filiform warts are long, narrow, thread-like warts caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly types 1, 2, 4, 27, and 29. They typically appear on the face, neck, eyelids, and lips due to the thin and sensitive skin in these areas.
Symptoms of HPV warts:
- Long, finger-like projections
- Flesh-colored or slightly darker than the surrounding skin
- Usually painless but can be irritating if located in sensitive areas
Causes & Risk Factors of HPV warts:
- Direct skin contact with an infected person or contaminated surface
- Scratching or shaving over an infected area, spreading the virus
- Weakened immune system
Treatment Options of HPV warts:
- Topical Treatments:
- Salicylic acid
- Retinoids
- Imiquimod (immune response modifier)
- Cryotherapy (Freezing with Liquid Nitrogen):
- Common treatment performed by dermatologists
- Electrocautery (Burning the Wart):
- Uses an electric current to destroy the wart
- Laser Therapy:
- Used for stubborn warts that don’t respond to other treatments
- Surgical Removal:
- Minor procedure if the wart is persistent or causing discomfort
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| Wart after treatment (note:some visual enhancing may be used) |
How are HPV warts tranmitted?
Warts are transmissible diseases and transmitted by direct or indirect contact with the person with the warts.
- Direct Skin-to-Skin Contact – Touching an infected area.
- Sexual Contact – Vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
- Fomites – Shared personal items (e.g., razors, towels).
- Autoinoculation – Spreading the virus to other body parts.
- Mother-to-Child (Perinatal Transmission) – During childbirth.



