Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a widespread virus that can cause various skin growths, commonly known as warts. While HPV-related warts are contagious, skin tags are not.
Understanding HPV-Related Growths and Skin Tags
Warts are rough, raised bumps caused by HPV, appearing on various body parts like hands, fingers, and feet (common or plantar warts). Genital warts, caused by specific HPV strains, are found in and around genital and anal areas, appearing flat, slightly raised, or cauliflower-like. HPV causes excess keratin to develop in the top skin layer, giving warts their characteristic texture.
In contrast, skin tags are benign growths not caused by a virus. They are small, soft, flesh-colored pieces of skin often found in areas of skin folds or friction, such as the neck, armpits, or groin. Unlike warts, skin tags are smooth and may hang from the skin on a thin stalk.
How HPV Spreads
HPV primarily spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact. This occurs when touching an existing wart or skin carrying the virus. The virus can enter through microscopic cuts or abrasions, making damaged skin more susceptible.
Transmission also happens indirectly through shared personal items like towels, razors, or nail clippers. Walking barefoot in warm, moist communal areas, such as locker rooms, public showers, or pool areas, can also facilitate spread. It is possible to spread the virus from one part of your own body to another, for example, by scratching a wart and then touching another area.
Minimizing Transmission Risk
Avoiding direct contact with warts on others and frequent hand washing can help minimize spread. Refrain from sharing personal items like towels, razors, or nail clippers, as these can harbor the virus. Protecting skin by covering cuts and scrapes reduces entry points for HPV. For foot warts, wear flip-flops or shoes in public changing rooms and pool areas to prevent exposure. HPV vaccines are available and protect against certain strains, including those causing most genital warts.
Addressing HPV-Related Skin Growths
If you suspect you have skin growths, seeking a professional diagnosis is advisable to determine if they are HPV-related warts or non-contagious skin tags. A healthcare provider can typically diagnose HPV warts by their appearance. While many warts may disappear on their own, especially in children, treatment options are available if they are bothersome, painful, or continue to spread.
Common treatments for warts include over-the-counter products containing salicylic acid, which works by gradually dissolving the wart layers. For more persistent or widespread warts, healthcare providers may offer treatments such as cryotherapy, which freezes the wart with liquid nitrogen, or electrocautery, which burns it off with an electrical current. Surgical removal or laser therapy are also options for certain types of warts. While treatments remove visible warts, the underlying HPV virus may remain in the body.