Warts: Treatment, Symptoms, and Healing Process - Dermatology

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Warts, medically known as verrucae, are benign epithelial tumors caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear on various parts of the body, including the fingers, hands, and feet. The treatment for warts can vary depending on their location, size, and the patient's overall health.
From your description, it seems you were prescribed a topical treatment that resembles nail polish application. This is a common method for treating warts, often involving medications such as salicylic acid or other keratolytic agents that help to soften and peel away the wart tissue. The process you followed—soaking the wart in warm water before applying the medication—is a recommended practice as it helps to enhance the absorption of the medication and facilitates the removal of the wart.

The appearance of a "volcano-like" crater with a black center that you described is not uncommon. The black spots you noticed could be thrombosed capillaries, which are often seen in warts. As the wart is treated, it may become less painful and the black spots may disappear, indicating that the wart is responding to treatment. The fact that you are experiencing less pain is a positive sign, suggesting that the wart is likely healing.

In terms of whether you should continue applying the medication, it is generally advisable to follow your healthcare provider's instructions. If the wart is still raised and painful, it may indicate that the wart is not fully resolved. You should continue the treatment until the wart is completely flat and no longer painful. A wart is considered completely healed when the skin appears normal, is smooth to the touch, and there are no signs of the wart's characteristic texture or color.

If you notice any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus, or if the wart does not improve after a reasonable period of treatment, you should consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend alternative treatments, such as cryotherapy (freezing the wart), laser therapy, or surgical removal, depending on the wart's persistence and your individual circumstances.

In summary, continue with the treatment as directed, monitor the wart for any changes, and consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns about its appearance or if it does not improve. Warts can take time to resolve, and patience is often required during the healing process.