What are filamentous warts?

Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
Updated on September 05, 2024
00:00
00:00

Filiform warts are a type of skin disease caused by the human papillomavirus infection, and they belong to a kind of common warts, often seen in women, with a certain degree of contagiosity. They are usually related to a decline in the body’s immune function. For example, in cancer patients or those with HIV where the immune system is compromised, filiform warts can easily occur.

The clinical presentation of filiform warts typically includes brown or light brown lesions, some of which match the normal skin tone. They appear as elongated, soft, pedunculated growths and can vary in number from several to several hundred. They generally occur on eyelids, neck, and scalp among other areas. For the treatment of filiform warts, options under medical guidance include using carbon dioxide laser therapy, cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen, or removal through high-frequency electrical ion cauterization.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhang Jing
Dermatology Department
51sec home-news-image

Are filiform warts an early stage of cancer?

Filiform warts are not cancer; they are caused by a virus, which means they are a viral infection that manifests as a skin disease. The pathogen responsible is the human papillomavirus, making it a benign skin condition. It is also important to note that filiform warts are different from skin tags, and many people confuse the two. In fact, these are two completely different skin conditions: filiform warts are an infectious disease, while skin tags are a benign tumor of the skin. Although both can be treated with lasers, skin tags only affect appearance, whereas filiform warts are contagious and can be transmitted to oneself or others. Therefore, if you find filiform warts, it is best to seek laser treatment at a hospital as soon as possible.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
51sec home-news-image

Can filiform warts be transmitted between spouses?

Filiform warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which is quite contagious. Transmission between spouses can be more severe due to prolonged contact, or sharing items like towels and bath mitts, which can lead to infection. Once one person is infected, it is crucial to seek standardized treatment at a hospital. The most common treatment currently used is laser removal, which in most cases can cure the condition in one or two sessions. However, some patients may experience recurrent outbreaks, requiring laser treatment each time to prevent the warts from multiplying and spreading. During treatment, towels and bath mitts should be frequently disinfected and not shared. Additionally, it is recommended to engage in regular exercise to boost the immune system, or take oral medications that enhance immunity to prevent recurrence.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
46sec home-news-image

Do filiform warts itch?

Filiform warts generally do not itch and are caused by an infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which has a certain degree of contagiousness. Filiform warts typically appear in areas such as the neck, armpits, and groin. They do not impact health but can affect appearance. Filiform warts are a special type of common wart. In clinical treatment, the main methods include using carbon dioxide laser treatment or cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen. The occurrence of filiform warts is somewhat related to a decrease in body immunity. If one finds cryotherapy or carbon dioxide laser treatment painful, topical ointments can be an option. Interferon ointments, for instance, can be helpful.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
1min 1sec home-news-image

Will filiform warts grow back after removal?

Filiform warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. This disease is characterized by strong contagiosity and recursivity, with many cases likely experiencing recurrence after the initial treatment. The recurrence period varies; depending on individual immune strength, recurrences may occur about every half a month to one month. Once recurrence happens, it is necessary to treat again and remove the newly appeared warts. Some people may experience repeated recurrences and require multiple treatments to be completely cured. During the treatment period, interferon can be applied topically to prevent excessive viral proliferation. During the treatment period, it is also important to follow a proper diet and lifestyle habits. Bath sponges and towels should be used separately from other family members to prevent cross-contamination. Used items should be sun-dried and disinfected, and it is beneficial to eat foods that clear heat and reduce internal heat.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
1min 1sec home-news-image

What should I do if a filamentous wart breaks?

After a filiform wart breaks, it is important to avoid contact with water to prevent infection. Once a filiform wart is damaged and scabs form, you can visit a dermatology department at a reputable hospital for treatment. Some physical therapy methods used to remove these include liquid nitrogen freezing, carbon dioxide laser treatment, high-frequency ion therapy, and microwave treatment. These methods can effectively remove filiform warts. Recurrence of filiform warts may occur, so it is essential to regularly revisit the hospital for follow-up after treatment. Filiform warts are a type of viral skin infection, which is related to a decline in the body's immune system. Therefore, it is important to rest adequately, avoid staying up late, exercise appropriately to enhance immune function, and maintain a light diet, avoiding spicy and irritating foods.