Dealing with Persistent Warts: Effective Treatments and Prevention Tips

Q: Dealing with Persistent Warts: Effective Treatments and Prevention Tips

Hello： Regarding the causes and treatment of viral warts, you can refer to the article on the Dermatology Expert Health Network at http：//www.drskincare.com.tw/Qa/Detail.aspx?ID=52. <br>Whether scarring occurs after electrosurgery is related to individual constitution and postope

Annoying warts, oh no!

Hello, doctor.
In May and June of this year, I noticed several small bumps on the side of my neck (in the area of the lymph nodes).
At first, I thought they were pimples, so I ignored them.
However, after two months, they were still there, so I went to see a doctor.
The doctor said they were viral warts and performed cryotherapy three times, but it was ineffective.
The doctor mentioned that I had a poor response to cryotherapy and suggested using electrosurgery instead.
Surprisingly, after the three cryotherapy sessions, the warts that had not spread before started to proliferate rapidly.
Now, I have them all over my chest, collarbone, and shoulders, and I’m feeling overwhelmed.
Is the treatment with electrosurgery effective? (I just had my first session today, and it was very painful.) Will it leave difficult scars? The doctor also mentioned that there is a possibility of recurrence.
Are there any ways to prevent this, such as dietary changes or daily habits? Thank you, doctor.

Weng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/26

Dr. Li Yufen reply Dermatology

Hello: Regarding the causes and treatment of viral warts, you can refer to the article on the Dermatology Expert Health Network at http://www.drskincare.com.tw/Qa/Detail.aspx?ID=52.
Whether scarring occurs after electrosurgery is related to individual constitution and postoperative wound care.
By preventing infection in the wound, the chance of scarring is reduced.
It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, engage in moderate exercise, have regular sleep patterns, and enhance the body's immune system to eliminate human papillomavirus.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2015/10/26

More Info

Dealing with persistent warts can be a frustrating experience, especially when initial treatments do not yield the desired results. Warts, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), can be stubborn and may require multiple treatment modalities to effectively manage them. Your situation, where you have undergone cryotherapy (freezing treatment) multiple times without success, is not uncommon.
Treatment Options:
1. Electrosurgery (Electrodesiccation): This method uses electrical currents to burn off the wart tissue. It can be effective, especially for warts that have not responded to cryotherapy. However, it can be painful, as you've experienced, and may require local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. The effectiveness of electrosurgery can vary, and while many patients see improvement, there is a risk of scarring. Proper aftercare is essential to minimize this risk.
2. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter options like salicylic acid can help in peeling away the wart. These treatments require consistent application and may take several weeks to show results. Prescription treatments, such as imiquimod, can also stimulate the immune response to help fight the virus.

3. Laser Therapy: This is another option that can be effective for stubborn warts. It uses focused light to destroy wart tissue. Like electrosurgery, it may also lead to scarring, but it can be a good alternative if other treatments have failed.

4. Cantharidin: This is a blistering agent that can be applied by a healthcare provider. It causes a blister to form under the wart, lifting it off the skin. This method is generally less painful than electrosurgery and can be effective.

5. Immunotherapy: For recurrent or widespread warts, treatments that boost the immune system's response to the virus may be beneficial. This can include intralesional injections of antigens or other immune-modulating agents.

Prevention Tips:
1. Avoid Skin-to-Skin Contact: Since warts are contagious, avoid direct contact with warts on yourself or others. If you have warts, cover them with a bandage.

2. Maintain Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing and keeping your skin clean and dry can help prevent the spread of HPV.

3. Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share towels, razors, or other personal items that may come into contact with warts.

4. Healthy Lifestyle: A strong immune system can help your body fight off infections, including HPV. Eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress can contribute to overall health.

5. Regular Monitoring: Keep an eye on any new growths on your skin. Early intervention can prevent warts from spreading.

6. Consult Your Doctor: If you notice new warts or changes in existing ones, consult your healthcare provider promptly for evaluation and treatment options.

In conclusion, while electrosurgery can be effective for treating warts, it may not be the only option available. Discuss with your healthcare provider the possibility of combining treatments or trying different modalities if you continue to experience issues. Remember to follow up regularly and maintain preventive measures to reduce the risk of recurrence.

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