Warts: Healing or Recurrence After Treatment?

Q: Warts: Healing or Recurrence After Treatment?

Hello： In response to your question, if warts are not completely eradicated, they are likely to recur, which would render the discomfort endured during cryotherapy ineffective. <br>I recommend that you return for a follow-up appointment to "confirm" whether you are fully healed,

Could you please provide more details about the condition of the warts?

Hello, I recently developed a "wart" on a wound on my face (the type that keeps growing and causes the skin to flake off).
After undergoing multiple cryotherapy sessions, it seemed to have healed, but later a thick layer formed and hardened, although the skin is no longer flaking.
Is this considered healed? What further treatment is needed?

ellis, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/05/05

Dr. Chen Yiying reply Dermatology

Hello: In response to your question, if warts are not completely eradicated, they are likely to recur, which would render the discomfort endured during cryotherapy ineffective.
I recommend that you return for a follow-up appointment to "confirm" whether you are fully healed, in order to prevent recurrence or transmission to other areas.

Reply Date: 2004/05/05

More Info

Warts are benign growths on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear anywhere on the body, including the face, and are often characterized by their rough texture and the ability to spread. The treatment of warts can vary based on their type, location, and the patient’s overall health.

In your case, it sounds like you have undergone cryotherapy, which is a common treatment for warts. This method involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen, causing the wart tissue to die and eventually fall off. While this treatment can be effective, it is not uncommon for warts to recur after treatment. The recurrence can happen for several reasons:
1. Incomplete Treatment: Sometimes, the wart may not be entirely removed during the initial treatment, leading to regrowth. The virus can remain in the surrounding skin, causing new wart formation.

2. Immune Response: The body’s immune response plays a significant role in controlling HPV. If the immune system is not able to effectively fight the virus, warts may continue to appear.

3. Different Strains of HPV: There are many strains of HPV, and it is possible to be infected with multiple strains, leading to the development of new warts even after previous ones have been treated.

Regarding your question about whether the wart is healed or if further treatment is necessary, the appearance of a thickened, hardened area on the skin could indicate that the wart has not fully resolved. The fact that the skin is no longer peeling may suggest that the wart has stabilized, but it does not necessarily mean it is completely healed.

Here are some recommendations for further management:
1. Consult a Dermatologist: It is advisable to see a dermatologist for a thorough examination. They can assess the wart and determine if it is indeed a recurrence or if it is a different skin condition altogether.

2. Consider Additional Treatments: If the wart is still present, your dermatologist may recommend additional treatments. Options include:
- Repeat Cryotherapy: Another round of freezing may be necessary.

- Topical Treatments: Prescription-strength topical treatments containing salicylic acid or other agents can help in removing the wart.

- Laser Therapy: This method uses focused light to destroy wart tissue.

- Immunotherapy: This approach helps to stimulate the immune system to fight the virus.

3. Monitor for Changes: Keep an eye on the wart for any changes in size, color, or texture. If you notice any significant changes, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly.

4. Avoid Self-Treatment: While it may be tempting to try over-the-counter treatments or home remedies, these can sometimes irritate the skin or lead to complications. It’s best to follow a treatment plan prescribed by a healthcare professional.

5. Maintain Good Skin Hygiene: Keeping the area clean and dry can help prevent further irritation or infection.

In conclusion, while it may seem that the wart has healed due to changes in appearance, it is crucial to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and ensure effective treatment.

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