Is every wart HPV?

Expert answer:

Yes, all warts are caused by HPV (human papilloma virus), including genital warts, which can progress to cancer.

However, it should be clarified that there are more than 100 types of HPV and those that cause warts on the hands or feet are not the same that cause cancer.

Warts are benign proliferations which occur in the most superficial layers of the skin or mucosa, resulting from the abnormal growth of epidermal cells (the most superficial layer of the skin).

HPV is transmitted through the direct contact with infected persons or objects. The virus enters the body through small wounds, hence the warts are more frequent in areas of trauma.

There may also be autoinoculation, through small wounds that act as the gateway to HPV, transmission through sexual contact and at the time of delivery (mother son).

People with weakened immune systems are more prone to the development of warts.

Learn more at:

HPV: What is it and how is it transmitted?

What are the symptoms of HPV?

What is the treatment for warts?

The treatment for warts varies according to the type of wart. Some forms of treatment include the application of salicylic acid, cryotherapy (freezing), electrosurgery (firing), and surgery. The goal of treatment is to destroy or remove lesions.

The most difficult to treat warts are those that reach the anus and genital organs (anogenital), as they may require combined treatments and, in many cases, surgery to remove them. In addition, this type of wart requires a lot of attention to treatment, as it can cause cancer.

How to prevent warts?

  • Avoid direct contact with contaminated persons, ie not touching or touching the warts;
  • Use condoms;
  • Take the HPV vaccine, indicated to prevent genital infection.

Read more about it in: Who Should Take the HPV Vaccine?

The appearance of any type of wart on the skin or mucosa should be analyzed by a dermatologist, which will identify the type of wart and effect or advise on proper treatment.

Learn more at: Throat HPV: What Symptoms and How to Treat?