Flat warts are a common skin condition. This article explores the nature of flat warts and addresses the question of itching.
What Are Flat Warts
Flat warts, also known as verruca plana, are small, noncancerous growths on the skin. They are flat, smooth, and only slightly raised, typically ranging from 1 to 5 millimeters across. Unlike common warts that often have a rough, bumpy texture, flat warts develop horizontally within the top layer of the skin, the epidermis. Their color can vary, appearing skin-colored, yellowish-brown, or pinkish.
These warts frequently appear in groups or clusters. Common locations for flat warts include the face, neck, hands, wrists, arms, and legs. In children, they are often seen on the face, while in adults, they can appear in areas prone to shaving, such as the beard area for men or legs for women, due to minor skin breaks.
The underlying cause of flat warts is infection with specific strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus typically enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions. Flat warts are contagious and can spread through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or by touching contaminated surfaces.
Do Flat Warts Cause Itching
Flat warts are generally painless. However, while not all flat warts itch, some individuals may experience itching or irritation. This discomfort is typically not a primary symptom of the wart itself but can arise from external factors.
Itching might occur if the warts are subjected to scratching, friction from clothing, or if the affected skin becomes dry. When numerous flat warts are present, particularly in areas of frequent contact, the collective irritation can lead to a sensation of itchiness. Flat warts are usually asymptomatic unless irritated.
If itching does happen, it is typically mild and not indicative of a more serious underlying issue. Other characteristics of flat warts include their tendency to spread, sometimes appearing in a line due to scratching or shaving. While flat warts might occasionally cause slight discomfort if bumped, they generally do not interfere with daily activities.
Addressing Flat Warts
Flat warts often resolve on their own over time, sometimes within a few months or up to several years, as the body’s immune system clears the viral infection. However, if flat warts become bothersome, spread, or cause cosmetic concern, various approaches can help manage them. Treatment is typically aimed at removing the wart rather than curing the underlying HPV infection, meaning warts can sometimes recur.
Individuals should consider seeking professional medical advice if the warts are painful, bleeding, showing signs of infection like pus, or if their appearance changes. Consulting a healthcare provider is also advisable if the warts are spreading rapidly, are located on the face or genitals, or if the individual has a weakened immune system or diabetes. A doctor can confirm the diagnosis and rule out other skin conditions.
General management options for flat warts include topical treatments, which can be over-the-counter or prescription-strength. These often contain ingredients like salicylic acid, retinoids, imiquimod, or fluorouracil, which work by gradually breaking down the wart tissue or stimulating an immune response. Other procedures performed by a healthcare professional include cryotherapy, which involves freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen, or electrocautery, which uses heat to burn them off. Laser therapy is another option for wart removal.