Common warts

Question 1

What causes common warts?

Answer 1

Common warts are caused by infection with the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).
There are many types of HPV, each causing different types of warts.

Question 2

What is the natural course of warts in most cases?

Answer 2

In 2/3 of cases, the infected person’s immune system clears the warts within 2 years, so treatment is often unnecessary.

Question 3

What is the first-line treatment for common warts?

Answer 3

Keratolytic therapy with salicylic acid 25% ointment applied twice daily.
Follow by cutting or scraping the warts with a pumice stone, callus file, or knife twice a week.