What are warts?
Warts are harmless skin growths caused by a virus. They have a rough surface on which tiny dark specks may be seen. They may grow on any part of the body and their appearance depends on their location. Warts in the genital or rectal area have a wet appearance and have been said to look like cauliflower.

Why do I get them?
We do not know why some people get warts easily while others never get them. There is no way to prevent warts. Warts are common. They may bleed if injured.

Are warts contagious?
Since warts are caused by a virus, they are slightly contagious. You should not share clothing or linen with someone who has warts. Warts may spread on the body and seed other areas.

How is it treated?
There is no guaranteed treatment method available for the removal of warts. Even laser surgery, which we have available, is not 100% effective. We have many treatments available to treat warts including liquid nitrogen, topical chemical treatments, oral treatments, and surgery. In some people, a single treatment is effective. In others, multiple treatments may be required. We prefer to treat warts when they are early and small, before they spread or get bigger, to obtain the best results.