Wart

A wart is a generally small, rough growth, typically on hands and feet. Warts are common and contagious, caused by a viral infection with one of the Papilloma virus strains. They typically disappear after a few months but, if untreated, can last for years and can reoccur. A few Papilloma viruses are known to cause cancer.

Possible treatments for warts include:

• Freezing and surgically removing the infected spot
• Treatment with chemical compounds, usually acetylosalicylic acid
• Laser treatment

However, none of these treatments are very effective. The wart often returns right after the skin has healed from the treatment.

A following household remedy is recommended for three following each other days: Put the "wart cells" in hot water with washing liquid. However it is difficult to prove whether the warts disappear because of the household remedy or by an immune reaction.

See also Genital wart.

External links

• "Warts," The Merck Manual