Warts

Overview

Warts are benign lesions formed by HPV-induced hyperproliferation of skin epithelial cells. Types include common warts (hands and feet), flat warts (face and dorsum of hands), plantar warts (soles), and condylomata acuminata (genital area). Treatment combines physical destruction (cryotherapy, laser, electrocautery) with immune modulation to clear the virus.

Mechanism

Cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen at -196 degrees Celsius) freezes and destroys HPV-infected tissue through ice crystal formation and vascular damage. CO2 or pulsed dye laser vaporizes or coagulates wart tissue. Electrocautery uses thermal energy for destruction. Immunotherapy (imiquimod, intralesional candida antigen) stimulates the patient's immune response against HPV. Combination approaches yield higher clearance rates.

Effects

Destruction and removal of wart tissue, HPV viral load reduction, prevention of spread to adjacent areas, and cosmetic improvement of affected skin.

Duration

Multiple sessions typically needed; cryotherapy every 2-3 weeks; complete clearance in 1-6 months depending on wart type, size, and immune response

Recovery

Cryotherapy: blister formation and crusting for 7-14 days. Laser: wound healing for 7-10 days. Mild pain and tenderness at treated sites. Wound care with ointment recommended. Bandaging for plantar warts.

Side Effects

Pain during and after treatment, blistering (cryotherapy), scarring risk, post-inflammatory pigmentation changes. Recurrence rate of 20-30% due to latent HPV. Plantar warts may cause temporary walking discomfort after treatment.

Price Range

10,000-50,000 KRW per lesion per session

Target Audience

Those with common, flat, plantar, or other warts seeking removal, those with spreading or recurrent warts, and those wanting cosmetic improvement of wart-affected areas.

Devices (1)