Warts Treatment

How are Warts Diagnosed?

A dermatologist is able to diagnose the presence of warts by examining the symptoms and the skin. These symptoms include a rough texture and the presence of black dots on the skin. If necessary, the dermatologist may pare (shave off) the top of the wart carefully. The diagnosis can be supported by bleeding spots or tiny black dots. A dermatoscope provides a magnified view that helps in making the diagnosis.

A skin biopsy may be done if there is a doubt as to whether the lesion is one of the other conditions, like a corn, molluscum contagiosum, or seborrhoeic keratosis. It also rules out skin cancer in rare, suspicious lesions. A correct diagnosis is necessary to guide the right treatment.

How are Warts Treated Based on Severity?

Treatment of warts depends on their number and stubbornness. The table below summarises the treatment approach for warts according to severity:

Types of Warts and Their Treatment

Warts are grouped by their shape and location. Treatment varies for each type, which are specified in the table below:

Topical Treatments for Warts

The following topical medications are directly applied to the wart. They form the backbone of the therapy in most patients.

Other Treatments for Warts

The following procedures are performed for resistant warts, big warts, and multiple warts. They are conducted by a dermatologist in a medical office.

Oral Medications for Warts

Treatment of warts is primarily done using topical medications and procedures. The following oral drugs may only be used in certain cases where they have become difficult or extensive:

• Oral Zinc

• Oral Retinoids

• Antibiotics (only for treating any secondary bacterial infections, if applicable)

• Painkillers (may be recommended after certain wart removal procedures, like excision)

Ayurvedic and Alternative Treatments for Warts

Some people may use natural treatment methods as supportive care for warts. However, such treatments should be supplementary and not a substitute for medical treatment. These include:

• Neem: It has been traditionally used in Ayurveda for its antiviral properties.

• Turmeric: It is considered to possess anti-inflammatory properties.

• Tea Tree Oil: It has antimicrobial properties.

• Garlic Extract: It is used in traditional medicine.

• Aloe Vera: It may soothe the skin around the affected area.

Note: These options should be used only after consulting a qualified practitioner. While it is helpful as supportive care, there is no scientific evidence to prove the benefits of these options for wart treatment.

Home Care for Managing Warts

Home treatments can remove smaller warts and help prevent their spread:

• Salicylic Acid: Apply an over-the-counter preparation once per day as instructed on the label.

• Soaking and Filing: Soak the wart and then use a nail file to remove any dead skin.

• Cover-Up: A bandage can help keep the virus contained and prevent further spread.

• Hand Washing: Wash your hands after touching a wart.

• Avoid Picking on the Warts: Refrain from scratching or picking at the warts.

• Avoid Shaving Off the Warts: Prevent the spread of the virus by not shaving over the wart.

Latest Treatment for Warts

Recent developments in the treatment of recalcitrant cutaneous warts include intralesional immunotherapy, in which the body’s immune system is activated to eliminate both treated and distant warts. In India, the intralesional MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine and purified protein derivative (PPD) are often employed in selected patients with multiple or recurrent warts.

A systematic review in 2024 found that MMR and PPD are among the most well-studied intralesional therapies, with favourable clearance rates in recalcitrant warts. However, further high-quality studies are needed to determine the optimal treatment approach.

How Long Does Warts Treatment Take?

Treatment time varies with the method and the type of wart. The table shows approximate timelines for the treatment of warts:

Warts Treatment Side Effects

Warts are usually safe to treat. However, some treatments could have slight and temporary side effects, such as:

• Salicylic Acid: May lead to irritation and a burning sensation.

• Cryotherapy: Can lead to pain, blisters, and skin discolouration.

• Excision or Laser: Can leave a small scar.

• Imiquimod: Can cause inflammation.

• Cantharidin: It causes controlled blisters, which can be temporarily painful.

Lifestyle Changes For Managing Warts

Simple lifestyle practices given below can prevent warts and their spread:

• Wear Appropriate Footwear: Wear slippers or footwear in public showers, swimming pools, and changing rooms.

• Avoid Sharing Personal Hygiene Items: Avoid sharing towels, socks, razors, or nail clippers.

• Get HPV Vaccination (If Eligible): Consider HPV vaccination to help prevent genital warts in eligible individuals.p>

• Maintain Skin Hygiene: Maintain good skin hygiene and avoid skin trauma that may increase the risk of HPV infection.

Triggers That Can Worsen Symptoms of Warts

Various elements may aid the transmission or existence of warts. Treatment for such factors helps in managing them. Some of the triggers for warts include:

• Weak Immune System: A weakened immune system can lead to the spread of warts.

• Damage to the Skin: Cuts and abrasions can aid the entry of HPV into the skin.

• Moisture and Sweat: Moist skin provides an environment conducive to warts.

• Biting Fingernails: This habit leads to the spread of warts from one part to another.

• Using a Shaver on Warts: The virus is spread using shavers to other parts of the skin.

• Sharing Items: Shared towels or footwear spread the virus.

Warts Treatment Cost

The cost of warts treatment in India varies depending on the type and number of warts. Over-the-counter creams for the treatment of warts will be the most economical option. Consultation with a dermatologist can cost around ₹500 to ₹2000. Cryotherapy treatment costs can range between ₹1500 and ₹5000 per session. Wart treatment using a laser can cost between ₹5,000 and ₹50,000, depending on the number and size. The cost will be higher in the case of multiple or difficult warts, as repeated visits will be required.

Does Health Insurance Cover Warts Treatment in India?

Wart removal done purely for aesthetic purposes is typically not covered by health insurance. However, depending on the terms of the policy, medically necessary treatment of warts, such as the removal of painful, bleeding, infected, or rapidly growing warts requiring hospital-based care, may be covered. Outpatient consultations, medications, and minor procedures are typically covered only if OPD benefits are included in the policy. To verify coverage, people should review their policy documents or get in touch with their insurer.