WARTS & MOLLUSCUM
Warts and molluscum are both caused by viruses on the skin, warts by one of 60 sub-types of Human Palilloma Virus and molluscum by a virus called Molluscum Contagiosum.
Wart
A wart is typically a raised growth on the surface of the skin. Warts are usually round or oval and rough, but may be flat or smooth. Plantar warts occur on the surface of the feet and may cause pain and discomfort. Warts can spread to other areas of the body or be passed to other people. They can cause emotional stress and embarrassment.
Molluscum
These are small, painless, pearl-like papules. They may appear anywhere on the body except the soles of the feet and palms of the hands. They are common in children and spread easily from person to person. The papules may occur in lines, where a person has scratched and caused them to spread.
WHAT WE DO
It’s important to get questionable spots looked at by a board certified dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis of a wart or molluscum. Treatments include acids, cryotherapy (freezing), chemical agents, and surgical excision.