Can You Get Warts on Your Hands? Skin Infections

Can warts grow on the hands?

Hello, doctor.
Can warts grow on the hands? I work in the service industry, and my palms and fingers tend to become drier and peel in the winter, sometimes even developing small cracks.
Once, a customer came in to make a purchase without washing his hands after using the restroom.
I was the one assisting him at the register.
During the transaction, I did not have direct contact with his hands, but I did handle the money he had touched.
If he had warts and did not wash his hands, could I potentially get infected through the money if I have cuts on my hands? My hands are mostly dry and peeling, and I don't see any significant cracks (perhaps they are too small to notice?).
There are a few lines around my joints that feel like cracks, but those seem to be normal for joints, right? I found online that hands can also get infected with warts.
At that moment, I was unaware that the gentleman had not washed his hands.
About a minute after handling his money, my colleague told me to wash my hands quickly.
I used antibacterial hand soap to wash my hands.
Is it still possible for me to develop warts? How long should I wait without any unusual symptoms to feel reassured? Thank you for your help, doctor.

NN, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/02/26

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Warts that appear on the hands should not be referred to as cauliflower; the likelihood of transmission from the genital area to the hands is quite low.

Reply Date: 2018/02/26

More Info

Yes, you can develop warts on your hands, which are commonly caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts are benign growths that can appear anywhere on the body, including the hands, and they often have a rough, cauliflower-like appearance, which is why they are sometimes colloquially referred to as "cauliflower" or "wart-like" lesions.
In your case, you mentioned that you work in the service industry and that your hands tend to get dry and sometimes have small cracks, especially during the winter. This dryness can make your skin more susceptible to infections, including viral infections like HPV, especially if there are small openings in the skin.
Regarding your concern about the interaction with a customer who may not have washed their hands after using the restroom, it is important to note that while HPV can be transmitted through direct contact with infected skin or surfaces, the risk of transmission through handling money is relatively low. The virus typically requires direct skin-to-skin contact to spread effectively. However, if the money was contaminated and you had an open wound or a crack in your skin, there is a theoretical risk, albeit a small one.

You mentioned that you used an antibacterial hand wash shortly after the interaction. This is a good practice, as proper hand hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of many infections, including those caused by bacteria and viruses. Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can help eliminate potential pathogens.

As for the timeline for monitoring any potential symptoms, warts typically take weeks to months to develop after exposure to the virus. If you do not notice any unusual growths or changes in your skin over the next few weeks, it is likely that you have not contracted warts from that interaction. However, if you do notice any new growths or changes, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for an evaluation.

In addition to warts, your concern about dry skin and small cracks is valid. Dry skin can lead to fissures that may increase the risk of bacterial infections. To prevent this, consider using a good moisturizer regularly, especially after washing your hands. Look for products that contain ingredients like glycerin, urea, or ceramides, which can help restore moisture and protect the skin barrier.

In summary, while it is possible to develop warts on your hands, the risk from the situation you described is relatively low, especially since you practiced good hand hygiene afterward. Keep an eye on your skin for any changes, and maintain a regular moisturizing routine to help prevent dryness and cracking. If you have any further concerns or notice any unusual symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options.

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