Warts

Warts are caused by a virus known as the human papilloma virus (HPV). HPV can be transmitted by direct skin to skin contact or from surfaces where the wart virus has been shed from the skin. Warts can affect any part of the skin and mucosa. Plantar, palmar and planar warts are some of the more common types of warts seen during childhood and adolescence. Adults can also develop warts but are less frequently affected than children. Warts are most commonly treated with liquid nitrogen but for small children who cannot tolerate the discomfort associated with liquid nitrogen, there are less painful therapeutic options.