Verrucae (Warts)

Verrucae (Warts) are small, rough growths that appear on the skin caused by an infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). They commonly affect the skin of the hands, feet, and other areas, and are part of the body's skin system. These growths are generally harmless but can be uncomfortable or unsightly. Warts spread through direct contact with the virus, often via skin-to-skin contact or contaminated surfaces. The main health impact is cosmetic, but they can sometimes cause pain or irritation depending on their location. The body's immune system may eventually clear the infection, but warts can persist or recur. Treatment options aim to remove the warts and reduce transmission.

Verrucae (Warts) are benign epidermal proliferations caused by infection with specific types of human papillomavirus (HPV), which infect keratinocytes leading to hyperplasia and papillomatosis. The virus induces epidermal hyperkeratosis and acanthosis, resulting in characteristic exophytic lesions with a rough surface. Common clinical variants include common warts, plantar warts, flat warts, and genital warts, each associated with different HPV subtypes. The condition is highly contagious through direct contact or autoinoculation and primarily affects the cutaneous and mucosal epithelium. Warts are significant due to their potential for cosmetic disfigurement, discomfort, and in some cases, transmission of oncogenic HPV types. Diagnosis is clinical, supported by characteristic morphology and sometimes histopathology. Immunocompromised patients may experience more extensive or recalcitrant lesions.