Wart

A wart is a generally small, rough growth, typically on hands and feet. Warts are common and contagious, caused by a viral infection with one of the Papilloma virus strains. They typically disappear after a few months but, if untreated, can last for years and can reoccur. A few Papilloma viruses are known to cause cancer.

Possible treatments for warts include:

• Freezing and surgically removing the infected spot
• Treatment with chemical compounds, usually acetylosalicylic acid
• Laser treatment

However, none of these treatments are very effective. The wart often returns right after the skin has healed from the treatment.

See also Genital wart.

External links

• "Warts," The Merck Manual (http://www.merck.com/pubs/mmanual/section10/chapter115/115b.htm)