Warts are benign (not cancerous) skin growths that appear when a virus infects the top layer of the skin.
Viruses that cause warts are called human papillomavirus (HPV). You are more likely to get one of these viruses if you cut or damage your skin in some way. Wart viruses are contagious. Warts can spread by contact with the wart or something that touched the wart.
Warts are often skin-colored and feel rough, but they can be dark (brown or gray-black), flat, and smooth.
You should see a dermatologist if you cannot get rid of the warts, the warts hurt, or you have many warts. Our dermatologists have many treatments for warts. The treatment used depends on the patient’s age and health as well as the type of wart.
Learn how to properly care for contagious warts from our experts at Advanced Dermatology and Mohs Surgery. Call our Batavia, IL office today to schedule an appointment!
