Warts: Transmission Risks and Prevention Tips

Regarding warts?

Hello Doctor,
Today when I visited the dermatologist, I found out that the spots on both of my feet that I thought were calluses are actually warts.
I have a few questions I would like to ask:
1.
I usually wash my feet with my left hand and do not touch my feet with my right hand.
Two days ago, I cut my left hand while doing some crafts, and at that time, I was unaware that the spots on my feet were warts.
While washing my feet, my left hand wound came into contact with the wart.
I read in previous responses that this could potentially transmit the virus to my hand, and there would be an incubation period before any noticeable symptoms appear.
My question is, if the virus did indeed enter the wound on my left hand, could it be transmitted to my right hand if I touch the wound on my right hand during the incubation period? [Can the wart virus be transmitted during the incubation period?] Is there a way to prevent this?
2.
I saw a post online from a doctor stating that genital warts and plantar warts are different subtypes that prefer to grow in specific areas.
However, some people say that warts on their hands have been transmitted to their genitals.
My questions are:
a.
I have heard that genital warts are highly contagious.
Is it possible for them to grow on the feet, or do they only grow in the genital area? Could the warts on my feet be the type associated with genital warts? How can I confirm whether the warts on my feet are common plantar warts? Is it possible for genital warts to infect my feet?
b.
If they are just common warts, is there a possibility they could be transmitted to the genital area? I have heard that any skin wound can allow various types of viruses to invade, is that true? Or do warts on the feet not transmit to wounds in other areas besides the hands and feet?
c.
I previously had a sore in my perineal area that has not yet healed.
If the wound on my hand comes into contact with the perineal wound during the virus's incubation period, could the virus be transmitted?
d.
If it is a common viral wart that transmits to the perineal wound, it cannot be classified as genital warts, right? But the treatment could be quite daunting...
Is there a possibility of transmission?
3.
My high school textbook mentioned that viruses cannot survive outside the human body for more than five minutes, but they might survive for three to five hours if supported by hair or skin flakes.
However, a few days ago, I read on a blog that papillomavirus can survive for a long time outside the body, and that public mice and flip-flops could be sources of transmission.
My questions are:
a.
Is the blogger incorrect, or is my high school textbook too simplistic, only discussing general viruses? How long can wart viruses survive outside the body in both the presence and absence of skin flakes?
b.
Is the probability of indirect transmission low? My socks and flip-flops are often quite damp; if my right hand wound comes into contact with them, could it get infected? If so, how quickly could that happen? If I take off my sweaty socks and immediately touch a spot that has been in contact with warts, could I get infected? What if I wait a few hours before touching it? (Since I used both hands to wash my socks, I want to know if I could be infected this way.
Should I stop washing my socks? What should I do since I have already washed them?)
c.
If I am not washing socks but just taking them off and my hand wound touches a spot that has been in contact with warts, could I get infected?
4.
I am currently undergoing cryotherapy.
If my hand wound comes into contact with the lesion while washing my feet, could I still get infected? Or is it safe during the treatment period? Or could it still be a risk, which is why I shouldn't wash?
I apologize for having so many questions, but I am quite anxious about this.
I know most people would advise me not to overthink it for my mental well-being, but I really want to know the answers to these questions.
Thank you for your patience in reading my concerns, and I look forward to your response.
Wishing you a wonderful day.

Sincerely,
Lanlan

Lanlan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/16

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

1.
It is possible.
2.
Genital warts are commonly referred to as "cauliflower." 3.
They can be contagious, but it is still important to maintain good hygiene.
4.
If it is very bothersome, please seek medical attention promptly.

Reply Date: 2016/11/16

More Info

Understanding warts, particularly in the context of transmission risks and prevention, is crucial for managing and mitigating potential infections. Warts are benign growths caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), and they can appear on various parts of the body, including the hands, feet, and genital areas. Here, I will address your concerns regarding transmission, types of warts, and preventive measures.

1. Transmission Risks: Warts are contagious, primarily through direct skin-to-skin contact. If you have a cut or abrasion on your hand and it comes into contact with a wart, there is a risk of the virus entering through that break in the skin. The incubation period for HPV can vary, typically ranging from a few weeks to several months, during which the virus may not show any symptoms. If your left hand's wound came into contact with the wart on your foot, there is a possibility that the virus could infect the wound. However, during the incubation period, the virus is not actively shedding, so the risk of transmission to another area (like your right hand) is lower but still possible.

2. Types of Warts: Different strains of HPV cause different types of warts. Common warts (verrucae vulgaris) typically appear on the hands and feet, while genital warts (condylomata acuminata) are associated with sexual contact. It is unlikely for genital warts to grow on the feet, as they prefer moist environments found in the genital area. However, if you have a wart on your foot, it is generally a common wart and not a genital wart. To confirm the type of wart, a dermatologist can perform a visual examination or a biopsy if necessary.

3. Infection and Prevention: It is true that any break in the skin can allow viruses to enter. If you have an open wound in the perineal area and it comes into contact with a wart or a contaminated surface, there is a risk of transmission. However, the likelihood of a common wart infecting the genital area is low. If you are undergoing treatment for warts, such as cryotherapy, it is advisable to avoid direct contact with the treated area until it has healed completely.

4. Survival of HPV Outside the Body: HPV can survive outside the body for varying lengths of time, depending on environmental conditions. While some sources suggest that HPV can survive for only a few minutes, others indicate that it can persist for hours or even days on surfaces like towels, shoes, or pool decks. This is why it is essential to maintain good hygiene, especially in communal areas. If your socks or shoes are damp, they could potentially harbor the virus, so it is wise to wash them regularly and avoid sharing footwear.

5. Indirect Transmission: The risk of indirect transmission through surfaces is generally considered lower than direct contact. However, if your hand wound comes into contact with a surface that has been contaminated with HPV, there is still a risk. Washing your hands thoroughly after touching potentially contaminated surfaces can help reduce this risk.

6. Current Treatment: While undergoing cryotherapy, it is crucial to keep the treated area clean and dry. If your hand wound touches the wart during treatment, there is a risk of transmission, so it is advisable to avoid such contact. If you have concerns about your treatment or the risk of transmission, discussing them with your dermatologist can provide you with tailored advice and reassurance.

In summary, while warts are contagious, understanding the modes of transmission and taking preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of spreading the virus. Maintaining good hygiene, avoiding direct contact with warts, and seeking appropriate treatment are essential steps in managing warts effectively. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

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