Causes of Warts in Children
Warts are primarily caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Different types of warts result from various strains of this virus.
Risk Factors
Children are more prone to warts, especially if they have close contact with someone infected or a weakened immune system.
Identifying Symptoms
Warts are usually painless, except for those on the soles of the feet. Common, plantar, flat, filiform, and periungual warts exhibit distinct characteristics.
Common Types of Warts:
- Common Warts: Rough surface, grayish-yellow or brown, found on fingers, elbows, knees, or face.
- Plantar and Palmar Warts: Soles of feet or palms of hands, potentially forming painful mosaic groups.
- Flat Warts: Small, smooth growths commonly appear on children’s faces.
- Filiform Warts: Small, long growths on eyelids, lips, face, or neck.
- Periungual Warts: Thickened skin around nails, causing painful splits (fissures).
Plantar Warts: A Closer Look
Plantar warts, though non-cancerous, can be painful and resistant to treatment, developing on the soles of the feet.
Diagnosis
Healthcare providers diagnose warts based on appearance. A physical exam, and in some cases, a shave biopsy, may be recommended.
Treatment Options
The approach to treating warts depends on factors such as location, type, and duration. Treatment methods include:
- Topical Irritants: Applying salicylic acid or other medicines.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen.
- Electrocautery: Applying an electrical current to the wart.
- Excision: Cutting out the wart.
- Laser Surgery: Removing the wart with laser surgery.
Complications
Warts can be challenging to treat and may recur, necessitating ongoing attention.
Prevention Tips
Warts are contagious, spreading through skin-to-skin contact or shared personal items. Preventive measures include:
- Avoiding self-spread: Ensure your child doesn’t touch the wart to other body parts.
- Limiting contact: Discourage sharing personal items, such as towels.
- Foot protection: Wear socks or slippers if warts are on the bottom of the feet.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Contact your child’s healthcare provider if warts are painful, disrupt normal activities, or become a source of embarrassment.