{"id":1298,"date":"2025-06-18T22:05:30","date_gmt":"2025-06-18T22:05:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/borealisderm.com\/?p=1298"},"modified":"2026-10-13T11:13:39","modified_gmt":"2026-10-13T15:13:39","slug":"warts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/borealisderm.com\/bn\/pediatrics\/warts\/","title":{"rendered":"Warts (Verrucae)"},"content":{"rendered":"

\u2190 Back to Pediatric Dermatology<\/a><\/p>\n

Warts can be stubborn, spread to other fingers or feet, and become painful or embarrassing for children.<\/p>\n

We confirm that the growth is a wart and choose treatment based on age, location, number, and how much discomfort a treatment is likely to cause.<\/p>\n

Options range from watchful waiting and home therapy to freezing or other office treatment.<\/p>\n

What Parents Should Know<\/h2>\n

Warts are benign skin growths caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). They are very common in children and may appear on the hands, feet, knees, elbows, or other areas.<\/p>\n

Do warts always need treatment?<\/h3>\n

No. Many warts resolve spontaneously as the immune system recognizes the virus. Treatment may be useful when warts are painful, spreading, persistent, cosmetically bothersome, or interfering with activities.<\/p>\n

What treatments are available?<\/h3>\n

Options may include salicylic acid, cryotherapy, cantharidin, curettage, or other office-based treatments depending on age, location, number of warts, and tolerance for discomfort.<\/p>\n

Can warts spread?<\/h3>\n

Yes. HPV can spread through direct contact and by scratching or picking. Covering irritated warts and avoiding sharing nail tools or razors can reduce spread.<\/p>\n

When should a child be evaluated?<\/h3>\n

See a dermatologist when the diagnosis is uncertain, lesions are rapidly multiplying, painful, bleeding, located on the face or genitals, or the child is immunocompromised.<\/p>\n

Related reading from Borealis<\/h3>\n

Explore these articles for more background and questions to discuss at your visit.<\/p>\n