← Back to Pediatric Dermatology
Warts can be stubborn, spread to other fingers or feet, and become painful or embarrassing for children.
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.
Options range from watchful waiting and home therapy to freezing or other office treatment.
What Parents Should Know
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.
Do warts always need treatment?
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.
What treatments are available?
Options may include salicylic acid, cryotherapy, cantharidin, curettage, or other office-based treatments depending on age, location, number of warts, and tolerance for discomfort.
Can warts spread?
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.
When should a child be evaluated?
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.
Related reading from Borealis
Explore these articles for more background and questions to discuss at your visit.
Common and plantar warts
Verruca vulgaris is the medical name for a common wart; plantar warts grow on the soles and can hurt with walking. Do not cut or pick at them. Ask about an age-appropriate treatment plan before using wart removers on a young child, and never use them on the face or genital skin without medical guidance. Smooth bumps with a central dimple may instead be molluscum contagiosum.
Parent resource: AAD wart care guidance.