Warts in Children: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

Wart

Hello, my child is seven years old and a year ago we discovered warts on his fingers.
At first, we didn't pay much attention, but they have been increasing in number.
A dermatologist said they are warts and can be contagious.
Some suggested surgical removal, while others have performed cryotherapy dozens of times, but my child is afraid of the pain and resists it.
There have also been injections and medications to alter his immune response, but recently, new warts have continued to appear.

1.
How can the child become infected through contact?
2.
Are these warts the same as genital warts?
3.
What are the best methods to suppress and treat this condition in children?

Youxin de mama, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/01/14

Dr. Zhong Yitun reply Dermatology

Warts are caused by an infection with a group of viruses known as "human papillomavirus" (HPV).
They are easily transmitted through close contact with lesions, especially when there is a break in the skin.
However, most patients cannot recall how they were infected.
There are dozens of strains of this virus, and the types of warts on the hands and those resembling cauliflower may be the same or different.
Compliance with treatment can be a significant challenge in children, especially those around 7 years old.
A possible solution is to encourage them to accept a milder form of cryotherapy (it should not be too aggressive, as strong treatments may lead to greater resistance in the future).
For "protruding" warts, topical caustics can be used (these should only be used on protruding warts to avoid safety concerns; flat or ingrown warts should not be treated at home).
Some foods, such as Brazilian mushrooms, seem to help boost the immune system and can be consumed.

Reply Date: 2004/01/14

More Info

Warts in children, also known as verrucae, are benign growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are common in children and can appear on various parts of the body, including fingers, hands, and feet. Understanding the causes, treatments, and prevention strategies for warts is essential for parents dealing with this issue.

Causes of Warts in Children
1. Infection: Warts are caused by the HPV, which can be transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact or indirectly through contaminated surfaces. Children are particularly susceptible to warts because they often play in close proximity to one another and may share personal items like towels or razors.

2. Weakened Immune System: Children with a weakened immune system may be more prone to developing warts. Factors that can weaken the immune system include chronic illnesses, certain medications, or even stress.

3. Skin Breaks: Warts can develop more easily if there are small cuts or abrasions on the skin, which allow the virus to enter.

Are Warts Similar to Cauliflower?
Warts and cauliflower are not the same, although they may appear similar in texture. Warts are caused by a viral infection, while cauliflower is a type of vegetable. However, the term "cauliflower" is sometimes used colloquially to describe the appearance of certain types of warts, particularly genital warts, which can resemble the shape of a cauliflower. It's important to note that genital warts are caused by different strains of HPV and require different treatment approaches.

Treatment Options for Warts
1. Observation: In many cases, warts in children may resolve on their own without treatment. This is particularly true for common warts, which can take months or even years to disappear.

2. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter treatments containing salicylic acid can help remove warts by gradually peeling away the layers of skin. These treatments are usually safe for children but should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

3. Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen. While effective, it can be painful, and children may be apprehensive about the procedure. It's essential to discuss pain management options with the healthcare provider.

4. Electrosurgery and Laser Therapy: These methods can be used for stubborn warts that do not respond to other treatments. They are generally more invasive and may require anesthesia.

5. Immunotherapy: This approach involves using medications that stimulate the immune system to fight the virus. It may be considered for warts that are resistant to other treatments.

Prevention Strategies
1. Hygiene: Encourage good hygiene practices, such as washing hands regularly and avoiding sharing personal items like towels or razors.

2. Avoiding Contact: Teach children to avoid touching warts on themselves or others, as this can spread the virus.

3. Protective Footwear: Wearing sandals or water shoes in communal areas like swimming pools or locker rooms can help prevent the spread of HPV.

4. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle can support the immune system, making it less likely for warts to develop.

Conclusion
Warts in children are generally harmless but can be bothersome and sometimes painful. Understanding how they are transmitted, their treatment options, and preventive measures can help parents manage this condition effectively. If warts persist or cause significant discomfort, it is advisable to consult a pediatric dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment options tailored to the child's needs.

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