What are filamentous warts?

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

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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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.

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Written by Zhang Jing
Dermatology Department
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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.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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What should be noted after laser treatment for filamentous warts?

Filiform warts are caused by papillomavirus infection. This disease is contagious and recurrent. Generally, after laser treatment, there will be small wounds on the treated area. It is important to protect these wounds. Avoid washing with water as much as possible and wait until scabs form before bathing. When bathing, try not to scrub the area with a bath towel. If some warts are not completely removed, scrubbing can cause the virus to spread and lead to recurrent infections. If a recurrence occurs, it is essential to go to the hospital for another laser treatment. Do not wait until the warts have grown significantly before seeking laser treatment. Towels or bath towels that you have used should be sun-dried and disinfected, and used separately from those of other family members to prevent the virus from spreading to them. Regular exercise to boost immunity can also be beneficial in preventing recurrence.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Are filiform warts prone to recurrence?

Filiform warts are caused by an infection with the human papillomavirus, and are highly contagious. They typically grow in the folds of the skin, such as the neck or armpits. Once detected, it is advised to seek laser treatment at a dermatology department of a reputable hospital. After laser removal, recurrence is common within half a month to a month. If recurrence is observed, it is best to remove them promptly, and after several repetitions, they can generally be completely cured. Due to the contagious nature of this condition, it is advisable not to share face towels with family members to avoid cross-infection. Additionally, one should avoid frequently scratching the affected areas, as this can lead to further spreading.

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Written by Liu Jing
Dermatology
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Filiform warts are caused by what?

Filiform warts, also known as skin tags, often have a certain family history and are common among overweight adults, particularly around the neck area. It is important to enhance skin cleanliness. Partially, the cause is a viral infection by the Human Papillomavirus, abbreviated as HPV. When necessary, physical treatments such as cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen or laser removal commonly used in clinical settings can be adopted to remove the warts. These methods are complemented by immune modulation, such as taking oral thymopentin enteric capsules, and applying interferon gel on the affected skin area to inhibit viral replication. The contagiousness is not very strong. It is advised to disinfect underwear and avoid harmful stimuli such as scratching or squeezing. (Please follow medical advice when using medications.)