Denta Cure

Wart/Mole Removal

What are Warts?

Warts, also known as Verrucae, are growths on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) infecting the top layer of skin cells. They typically appear rough and skin-colored, although they can also be flat, smooth, and dark (brown or grey-black). These viruses are more likely to infect skin that has been cut or damaged. Warts are contagious and can spread through direct contact with the wart or items that have touched it. They are frequently found on the hands, feet, face, and genital area.

What are the different types of warts?

Common warts (verruca vulgaris): These typically appear on fingers and toes but can appear elsewhere too. They have a rough, grainy texture and are often rounded on top. While they are usually less than 1 cm in size, they can merge to form larger warts.
Plantar warts: These grow on the soles of the feet and can develop beneath the skin surface. They start as small, rough, or thickened areas and gradually enlarge, causing discomfort while walking.
Flat warts (verruca plana): These warts are flat and can be skin-colored, pinkish, or brownish. They are commonly found on the face, hands, feet, legs, and arms. They may appear as separate lesions spaced apart or grouped closely together.
Filiform warts: These warts resemble tags or flaps and are typically found around the mouth, nose, neck, or under the chin. They are skin-colored.
Periungual warts: These warts grow around and under fingernails and toenails. They are similar in appearance to common warts and can be quite painful, affecting nail growth.
Genital warts: These warts, also known as "condyloma acuminatum," are caused by specific strains of HPV. They are associated with cervical cancer and should be promptly evaluated by a doctor if suspected.

What is the cause of warts?

Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), and various factors contribute to the spread of this infection:

Direct contact, such as touching your own wart or someone else's wart
Walking barefoot on moist surfaces
Sharing personal items like razors, shoes, or socks with an individual who has warts
Weakened immune system
Disruption of the skin barrier, such as dry skin or eczema

What is a Mole?

A mole or nevus is a growth on the skin formed by clusters of pigmented cells. Typically, they manifest as small spots with dark brown or tan coloring, often round or oval in shape. Moles can develop anywhere on the body and may alter in appearance over time, sometimes fading away.

How are moles treated?

Radiofrequency Ablation:Initially, a local anesthetic is administered around the mole. Subsequently, the growth is removed using fine needle radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Following the procedure, an antibacterial ointment is applied. Typically, this entire process lasts 15-20 minutes. A gentle scab develops over the treated area and naturally sheds off within a few days. This method is suitable for small and superficial moles only.
Punch Excision: Initially, a local anesthetic is injected around the mole. Next, a punch tool is placed over the mole and used to extract it. For larger moles, suturing may be necessary. Suturing aids in quicker healing and results in a cosmetically acceptable scar.
Shave excision:Initially, a local anesthetic is injected around the mole. Subsequently, the mole is excised using a sharp razor-like tool. Following this, electrosurgical feathering is performed using a tiny electrode-like device. This step aids in blending the wound with the surrounding skin. Stitches are not necessary post-procedure. This method is effective for superficial and small moles.
Laser Mole Removal: In Mole Removal Laser Treatment using a CO2 Laser, the procedure begins with the injection of a local anesthetic around the mole. The mole is then excised from its base using the CO2 laser. Removal of a mole sized 5-8 mm typically takes 5-10 minutes.
Surgical excision:Initially, a local anesthetic is administered around the mole. During this procedure, your doctor removes the entire mole along with the subcutaneous fat layer. This method is more invasive than shave excision. The incision is closed using stitches. If necessary, the mole is examined for signs of cancer afterward. This approach is suitable for large and deep moles.

What happens after the surgical excision of mole?

After the surgery, an antibiotic ointment will be applied to the treated area. Depending on the mole removal method used, the area may be bandaged. It's important to keep the area clean and dry for 24-48 hours. You will need to schedule a follow-up visit as directed by your doctor for stitch removal or a follow-up examination.

What are the treatments for skin warts?

Treatment for warts varies based on factors like the type of wart, number of lesions, and their location. In children, warts may resolve spontaneously within two years, although during this time, they can grow larger or lead to new warts. Smaller warts are generally easier to treat than larger ones.

The primary reasons for seeking wart treatment include an increase in the number of warts, cosmetic concerns, and pain.

Various treatment options are available for warts, ranging from home remedies to surgical interventions for wart removal.

Treatment you can do at home (home remedies for warts)

Salicylic acid-based lotion or ointment is applied directly to the wart.

Soak the affected area in warm water for about five minutes.
You can add a little salt to the water for enhanced effect.
Thoroughly dry the skin.
Use a nail file or another rough object to remove the upper layer of the wart.
Apply a small amount of salicylic acid strictly to the wart.
Repeat this process daily for at least 3-4 weeks to see initial improvement. Complete removal of the wart may take 2-3 months.