Viral Warts: Treatment, Breastfeeding, and Skin Changes

Q: Viral Warts: Treatment, Breastfeeding, and Skin Changes

Hello： After cryotherapy for viral warts, it is observed for 2-3 months, and if no new warts appear, it indicates that the warts have been cleared. <br>However, breastfeeding cannot wait that long, so you just need to ensure that the affected area does not come into direct contac

Wart caused by a virus?

If you have developed a viral wart on your chest and have undergone cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen treatment, you may wonder if it is safe to breastfeed a few weeks later if no new warts have appeared.
Generally, if the wart has been treated and there are no signs of new growth, the risk of transmitting the virus to your baby through breastfeeding is considered low.

Regarding the appearance of benign growths versus viral warts, benign lesions, such as seborrheic keratosis or skin tags, typically have a different texture and color compared to viral warts, which often have a rough surface and may appear cauliflower-like.

It is true that during pregnancy, hormonal changes can lead to various skin changes that may resemble warts, such as melasma or other benign growths.
To differentiate between these conditions, it is essential to consult with a dermatologist who can provide a proper diagnosis based on clinical examination and, if necessary, a biopsy.
Your dermatologist's statement about being cautious in diagnosis is a common approach in dermatology, emphasizing the importance of thorough evaluation.
To determine whether your skin changes are due to pregnancy or actual warts, consider factors such as the timing of the changes, their appearance, and any associated symptoms.
A healthcare professional can help clarify these concerns and guide you on the best course of action.

Zhen'er, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/08/06

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology

Hello: After cryotherapy for viral warts, it is observed for 2-3 months, and if no new warts appear, it indicates that the warts have been cleared.
However, breastfeeding cannot wait that long, so you just need to ensure that the affected area does not come into direct contact with your baby's skin.
Even if, unfortunately, the baby does get infected (perhaps it was already transmitted before treatment), early treatment can address the issue.
Moreover, the benefits of breastfeeding far outweigh the risk of transmission.
During pregnancy, some benign skin growths may resemble the appearance of viral warts; the distinction is that viral warts are contagious while benign growths are not.
When differentiation is not possible, it is indeed better to err on the side of caution, as cryotherapy has minimal harm, and even benign growths can be treated this way.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Li-Chen, Dermatology, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2004/08/06

More Info

When it comes to viral warts, also known as verrucae, there are several important considerations regarding treatment, breastfeeding, and distinguishing between different skin changes.
First, regarding your question about breastfeeding after cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen treatment) for viral warts: Generally, if the warts have been treated and there are no new lesions appearing, it is considered safe to breastfeed. The human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes viral warts, is not transmitted through breast milk. However, it is crucial to maintain good hygiene and avoid direct contact between the treated area and the baby to minimize any risk of transmission through skin contact.
As for the appearance of benign growths versus viral warts, there are some key differences. Viral warts typically have a rough, cauliflower-like surface and may have small black dots (thrombosed capillaries) within them. They can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the hands and feet. In contrast, benign skin growths, such as seborrheic keratosis or skin tags, usually have a smooth surface and are often flesh-colored or brown. They do not have the same rough texture as warts and are generally not associated with viral infections.

Pregnancy can indeed cause various skin changes due to hormonal fluctuations. Conditions such as melasma (dark patches on the skin), stretch marks, and even benign growths like skin tags can occur during pregnancy. These changes can sometimes resemble warts, making it challenging to differentiate between them. If you notice new growths during pregnancy, it is advisable to consult your dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis. They may perform a visual examination or, if necessary, a biopsy to confirm whether a growth is a wart or another type of skin lesion.

Your dermatologist's statement about "better to mistakenly treat a hundred than miss one" reflects a cautious approach to skin lesions, especially when there is uncertainty about their nature. If you are unsure whether a growth is due to pregnancy or a viral wart, it is best to seek professional advice. Dermatologists can provide clarity through examination and, if needed, further testing.

In summary, if you have undergone treatment for viral warts and there are no new lesions, breastfeeding is generally safe. Understanding the differences between viral warts and other skin changes is essential, especially during pregnancy. If you have concerns about new skin growths or changes, consulting with a dermatologist is the best course of action to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

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