Overview
Common warts are benign skin growths caused by infection with certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). They most often appear on the hands, fingers, knees, and elbows and are especially common in children and adolescents. Common warts are contagious and spread through direct skin contact or contact with contaminated surfaces, particularly when the skin has small cuts or abrasions.
Symptoms
Common warts usually have distinct physical features and may include:
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Small, rough, grainy skin growths
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Flesh-colored, white, or grayish appearance
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A dome-shaped or irregular surface
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Tiny black dots on the surface, which are clotted blood vessels
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Mild pain or discomfort if located on pressure areas
Causes
Common warts are caused by infection with specific types of human papillomavirus. The virus enters the skin through small breaks or cuts and triggers rapid growth of skin cells on the outer layer of the skin. Not everyone exposed to HPV develops warts, as immune response plays a key role in susceptibility.
Risk Factors
Several factors increase the risk of developing common warts, including:
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Weakened or immature immune system
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Close contact with someone who has warts
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Frequent exposure to moist environments such as swimming pools or locker rooms
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Skin injuries that allow viral entry
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Nail biting or picking at hangnails
Complications
Common warts are generally harmless, but complications can occur in some cases:
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Spread of warts to other areas of the body
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Secondary bacterial infection from scratching or picking
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Pain or bleeding if warts are injured
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Cosmetic concerns or emotional distress
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Recurrence after treatment
Prevention
While it is not always possible to prevent common warts completely, certain measures can reduce the risk:
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Avoid direct contact with warts on other people or on your own body
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Keep skin clean and dry
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Do not pick or scratch warts
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Cover cuts or abrasions on the skin
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Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, nail clippers, or razors
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