Cutaneous Warts Flashcards
What virus is the most common cause of cutaneous warts?
human papilloma virus
What group of viruses cause molloscum contagiosum?
pox viruses
What is a verruca?
Hypertrophy of the papillae and epidermis of the plantar surface caused by a virus
What are the two methods of transmission seen in cutaneous warts?
1) direct skin to skin contact
2) indirect contact e.g. contaminated surfaces and floors
Describe the appearance of common warts:
firm and raised with a rough surface that resembles a cauliflower, commonly found on knuckles, knees and fingers
What are periungal warts?
common warts found around the nails that can be painful and disturb the nail bed
Give a risk factor for periungal warts:
nail biting
Describe the appearance of plane warts:
round, flat-topped and skin coloured greyish/yellow warts typically found on the backs of hands
Describe the appearance of filiform warts:
warts with finger-like projections with a stalk, typically found on the face and neck
Describe the appearance of palmar and plantar warts:
rough, flat, pale lesions with central black dots (thrombosed capillaries)
What are mosaic warts?
coalesced plantar/palmar warts
Give 2 instances where warts should be referred to a dermatologist:
1) the wart is on the face
2) the patient is immunocompromised and there are many warts
Give 4 indications for wart treatment:
1) wart is painful
2) wart is cosmetically unsightly
3) wart is persistent
4) patient requests treatment
Give the two treatment options for uncomplicated, non-facial warts:
1) topical salicylic acid (for 12 weeks)
2) cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen
Give two specialist treatments for facial/complicated warts:
1) physical ablation e.g. surgery, laser treatment or photodynamic treatment
2) topical or oral retinoids
