Warts on the lips are skin growths caused by certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV). While generally harmless, their presence can be a source of concern due to their visible location. Understanding their typical characteristics helps in identifying these common skin changes.
Appearance of Lip Warts
A lip wart presents as a distinct growth on or around the lips. Its texture can be rough, bumpy, or granular, sometimes described as cauliflower-like. The coloration often matches the surrounding skin, appearing flesh-toned, pink, or white, though some may be slightly darker.
These growths can vary in shape, appearing as raised, rounded bumps, or occasionally as flatter lesions. Their size can range from a very small pinprick to several millimeters across. Warts can develop anywhere on the lips, including the inner or outer surfaces. They are painless, but irritation might cause tenderness or bleeding.
Common Types of Lip Warts
Different types of warts can manifest on the lips, each with unique visual characteristics. Common warts, known as verruca vulgaris, appear as hard, raised lumps with a rough surface. These may sometimes display small black speckles, which are clotted blood vessels.
Flat warts, or verruca plana, are smaller and smoother than common warts, appearing as slightly raised, flat-topped lesions. They can be flesh-colored, pink, or yellowish-brown and emerge in groups. Filiform warts have a distinctive appearance, characterized by thin, long, thread-like or finger-like projections extending from the skin. These are found around the eyes and lips, and can be yellow, brown, pink, or skin-toned.
Distinguishing Lip Warts from Other Bumps
Many types of bumps can appear on the lips, making differentiation from warts important. Cold sores, caused by the herpes simplex virus, begin as fluid-filled blisters that cluster and then crust over. Unlike warts, cold sores cause a tingling, itching, or burning sensation before they appear.
Fordyce spots are small, painless, white or yellowish bumps that are enlarged oil glands. They are numerous, symmetrical, and always present, unlike warts which are new growths. Milia are tiny, white, pearly cysts that result from trapped keratin beneath the skin. They are firm, dome-shaped, and appear in clusters, differing from the rougher texture of warts. Mucous cysts, or mucoceles, are soft, fluid-filled swellings that look translucent or bluish. These form when salivary glands become blocked or damaged, often after an injury.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many lip bumps are harmless, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable for an accurate diagnosis. Seek medical attention if the bump causes pain, bleeding, or discomfort.
Rapid growth, changes in appearance, or the spread of multiple bumps to other areas are reasons for a medical evaluation. If the growth interferes with eating, speaking, or oral hygiene, professional advice should be sought. Any concern about underlying conditions, or a desire for cosmetic removal, warrants a doctor’s visit.