Do filiform warts itch?

Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
Updated on September 19, 2024
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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 Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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What is the difference between skin tags and filiform warts?

Skin tags and filiform warts are clearly distinct. Clinically, skin tags are a type of soft external appearance, a skin soft fibroma, non-infectious, and somewhat hereditary; on the other hand, filiform warts are caused by a viral infection, offering a raised, smooth growth on the skin surface, and are somewhat infectious. The causes of each are different: filiform warts are due to human papillomavirus infections and commonly occur on the face and neck; whereas skin tags are mainly caused by skin aging. Treatment for filiform warts typically involves the use of lasers or cryotherapy, while skin tags may also be removed surgically or treated effectively with liquid nitrogen cryotherapy. Thus, there are differences in both the causes and clinical presentations of the two.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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What are filamentous warts?

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 Liu Gang
Dermatology
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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.

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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 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.