Verrucae commonly known as warts are small rough growths on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These growths can appear on various parts of the body but they are especially common on the feet where they are known as plantar warts.
This topic will explore the definition of verrucae their causes symptoms types risk factors and treatment options to help you better understand and manage this skin condition.
Definition of Verrucae
The term “verrucae” (plural of verruca) refers to benign skin growths caused by viral infections. They are usually painless but in some cases they can cause discomfort especially when located on weight-bearing areas like the soles of the feet.
Key Characteristics of Verrucae
- Caused by HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
- Appear as rough thickened skin lesions
- Can be painful when on the feet
- Contagious through direct or indirect contact
Types of Verrucae (Warts)
There are different types of verrucae each affecting different parts of the body.
1. Plantar Warts (Verruca Plantaris)
- Found on the soles of the feet.
- Can be painful when walking due to pressure.
- May have a hard calloused surface with tiny black dots (clotted blood vessels).
2. Common Warts (Verruca Vulgaris)
- Appear on the hands fingers and knees.
- Have a rough raised surface.
- Can spread through skin-to-skin contact.
3. Flat Warts (Verruca Plana)
- Smaller and smoother than other warts.
- Often appear on the face arms and legs.
- More common in children and teenagers.
4. Filiform Warts
- Appear as long thread-like projections.
- Commonly found on the face neck and eyelids.
- Can grow rapidly.
5. Periungual Warts
- Grow around the fingernails and toenails.
- Can be painful and affect nail growth.
- Often caused by nail biting or skin damage.
Causes and Transmission of Verrucae
Verrucae are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) which infects the top layer of the skin. The virus enters the skin through small cuts or abrasions leading to the growth of warts.
How HPV Spreads
- Direct skin contact with an infected person.
- Touching contaminated surfaces such as swimming pools gym floors or public showers.
- Sharing personal items like towels socks or razors.
- Weakened immune system making the body more susceptible to infections.
Symptoms of Verrucae
The symptoms of verrucae vary depending on the type and location.
Common Symptoms
- Small rough flesh-colored or grayish growths.
- Black dots inside the wart (tiny blood vessels).
- Pain or tenderness especially with plantar warts.
- Warts that spread to other areas due to scratching or picking.
Risk Factors for Developing Verrucae
Certain individuals are more prone to developing verrucae due to various factors.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
✔ Children and teenagers – More likely to contract HPV due to frequent skin contact.
✔ People with weakened immune systems – Individuals with conditions like HIV or those on immunosuppressants are more susceptible.
✔ Athletes and swimmers – Increased exposure to public showers locker rooms and swimming pools.
✔ People with skin injuries – Cuts cracks or damaged skin increases the risk of infection.
How to Prevent Verrucae?
Since verrucae are contagious taking precautions can help prevent their spread.
Prevention Tips
✔ Wear flip-flops in public showers and pools.
✔ Avoid sharing personal items like towels and socks.
✔ Keep feet dry and clean to prevent HPV from thriving.
✔ Do not touch or scratch warts as this can cause them to spread.
✔ Boost your immune system with a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Treatment Options for Verrucae
Verrucae often go away on their own but treatment may be necessary if they cause discomfort or spread rapidly.
1. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments
- Salicylic Acid – A common ingredient in wart removal creams that helps dissolve the affected skin.
- Cryotherapy (Freezing) – Uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy the wart tissue.
2. Medical Treatments
If home treatments do not work a doctor may recommend:
- Laser therapy – Uses laser energy to destroy wart tissue.
- Surgical removal – A doctor may cut or scrape off stubborn verrucae.
- Prescription medications – Topical treatments that stimulate the immune system to fight HPV.
3. Home Remedies
Some natural remedies may help manage verrucae including:
- Apple cider vinegar – Known for its acidic properties.
- Garlic extract – Contains antiviral properties that may reduce warts.
- Duct tape method – Covers the wart to suffocate the virus (effectiveness varies).
When to See a Doctor?
While verrucae are usually harmless seek medical attention if:
- The wart becomes painful swollen or infected.
- It spreads rapidly to other parts of the body.
- Over-the-counter treatments have not worked after several weeks.
- You have a weakened immune system and are more prone to infections.
Verrucae or warts are common skin growths caused by the HPV virus. While they are usually harmless they can be uncomfortable and contagious. Understanding their causes symptoms and treatments can help you manage them effectively.
By following proper hygiene and preventive measures you can reduce your risk of developing verrucae and prevent them from spreading. If necessary seek medical treatment to remove persistent or painful warts.
