A flat wart is a certain kind of wart that is often flatter or smoother than other kinds of warts. They are often darker than the usual skin color. Flat warts and other kinds of warts are caused by a Human Papilloma Virus or HPV. There are many kinds of HPV, most of them noncancerous. Flat warts often appear on the face or legs. They are more common in younger patients.
Causes of Flat Warts
Like other kinds of warts, flat warts are often caused by contact with another person who has HPV. Those with a lower immune system are at a higher risk for flat warts, as are children and adolescents.
Dealing with Flat Warts
Lots of flat warts will go away on their own, but in some cases, patients might ask their doctors to take steps to remove these skin growths. When flat warts exist on the face, they are more likely to need removal.
Doctors can use chemicals and topical solutions to remove flat warts. They can also use surgical methods, including new laser therapy options. Doctors can also use cryotherapy where they freeze off the warts. In addition, there are some home remedies that sometimes work for getting rid of flat warts and other kinds of warts.
If you have any of the symptoms of flat warts, see your family doctor. Your doctor can figure out if your condition is flat warts or something else like moles that may need to be monitored for growth. Ask medical professionals about the risks and benefits of choices for removing warts and other skin growths.
