Warts and Verrucas
Warts and verrucas are common, non-cancerous skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
They can appear anywhere on the body, most commonly on the hands and feet. Warts that develop on the soles of the feet are known as verrucas.
Although harmless, they can be contagious and may spread through direct contact or shared surfaces.
At The London Skin and Hair Clinic, Consultant Dermatologists assess warts and verrucas to confirm the diagnosis and advise on appropriate management. Patients seeking dermatology advice in London can access specialist assessment.
Warts are small, non-cancerous growths caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV)
The four types of warts are the common wart, plantar wart (verruca), plane wart and genital wart
As they are contagious you should avoid touching warts
Treatment is by freezing with liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy) and HPV vaccination can be used where patients have recurrent persistent genital warts
What causes Warts and Verrucas?
Warts and verrucas are caused by infection with certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV).
The virus enters the skin through small breaks or abrasions and stimulates rapid skin cell growth, leading to the formation of a wart.
They are spread through:
- direct skin-to-skin contact
- contact with contaminated surfaces such as floors or towels
- shared environments such as swimming pools or changing rooms
Different strains of HPV are responsible for different types of warts.
Who is at risk of Warts and Verrucas?
Warts and verrucas can affect people of all ages but are more common in:
- children and young adults
- individuals with weakened immune systems
- people frequently using communal facilities such as gyms or swimming pools
They may spread more easily in warm, moist environments.
What are the symptoms of Warts and Verrucas?
Warts and verrucas vary in appearance depending on their type and location.
Common features include:
- small, rough growths on the skin
- a firm, raised or flat surface
- clusters or single lesions
Warts typically appear on the hands and fingers and may have a rough, cauliflower-like texture.
Verrucas, found on the soles of the feet, are often:
- flatter due to pressure from walking
- surrounded by hardened skin
- associated with small black dots (clotted blood vessels)
Verrucas may be painful when pressure is applied, particularly when walking or standing.
Images of Warts and Verrucas
These images are kindly provided by DermNetNZ.org for non-commercial use, for the purpose of education and information. The images have not been modified and DermNetNZ do not endorse The London Skin and Hair Clinic. You can find a copy of the license at http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/nz/.
How are Warts and Verrucas diagnosed?
A dermatologist will usually diagnose warts and verrucas through clinical examination.
Their appearance is typically characteristic, and further testing is rarely required.
If there is any uncertainty, additional assessment may be recommended to exclude other skin conditions.
How are Warts and Verrucas treated and managed?
Many warts and verrucas resolve spontaneously over time without treatment.
However, treatment may be considered if they are painful, persistent, or spreading.
Management options may include:
- topical treatments such as creams, gels or medicated plasters
- cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen)
- other dermatological procedures depending on the type and location
It is important to avoid picking or scratching lesions, as this can spread the virus.
Simple hygiene measures, such as covering lesions and avoiding sharing personal items, can help reduce transmission.