A: From the clinical history, these bumps have been present over a period of 2 months. They are getting more in numbers. They feel hard but are not painful or sore. No history of itchiness.
On examination, they are rough to touch and non-tender. These are warts occurring on fingers and hands. They are caused by a type of virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). They spread via direct contact i.e. casual skin contact or through shared objects. The virus usually spreads through a break in the skin. Different people respond to the virus differently, not everyone who comes in contact with the virus develops viral warts. It is largely determined by our immune system.
So, how can we prevent it? We should avoid direct contact with warts. This being said, you should even avoid touching and picking at your OWN warts, as this action may spread it further to other parts of your hand or body. Don’t use the same nail clipper or pumice stone on your warts as you use on your healthy skin and nails.
Most common warts will eventually go away without treatment. However, this may take months or years. New ones may develop nearby. Therefore, most patients will seek treatment to remove it faster. Treatments include over-the-counter salicylic acid liquid or patch (peeling agent), minor surgery to cut away the tissue, CO2 laser treatment or liquid nitrogen freezing therapy (cryotherapy) in the doctor’s office. Treatment may take weeks or months. Even with treatment, warts tend to recur or spread.
Dr Tan
