Diagnosis and removal of common, plantar, and other HPV-related warts.
Despite the name, water warts are not true warts -- they're small, firm, dome-shaped bumps with a characteristic central dimple, caused by a poxvirus rather than HPV. They're common in children and spread easily through direct skin contact or shared items like towels.
Infection with the molluscum contagiosum virus, a member of the poxvirus family, spread through direct contact or contaminated surfaces.
Avoid sharing towels, bathing suits, or other personal items, and avoid scratching bumps, which can spread the virus to new areas.
Many cases clear on their own over months; when treatment is wanted, options include cryotherapy, cantharidin, or curettage.
Myth: Water warts are caused by the same virus as other warts. Fact: They're caused by a poxvirus, not HPV, even though the bumps can look somewhat similar.
If bumps spread widely, become irritated or infected, or persist for many months.