Do filiform warts itch?

Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
Updated on September 19, 2024
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Filiform warts generally do not itch and are caused by an infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which has a certain degree of contagiousness. Filiform warts typically appear in areas such as the neck, armpits, and groin. They do not impact health but can affect appearance. Filiform warts are a special type of common wart. In clinical treatment, the main methods include using carbon dioxide laser treatment or cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen. The occurrence of filiform warts is somewhat related to a decrease in body immunity. If one finds cryotherapy or carbon dioxide laser treatment painful, topical ointments can be an option. Interferon ointments, for instance, can be helpful.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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What are filamentous warts?

Filiform warts are a type of skin disease caused by the human papillomavirus infection, and they belong to a kind of common warts, often seen in women, with a certain degree of contagiosity. They are usually related to a decline in the body’s immune function. For example, in cancer patients or those with HIV where the immune system is compromised, filiform warts can easily occur. The clinical presentation of filiform warts typically includes brown or light brown lesions, some of which match the normal skin tone. They appear as elongated, soft, pedunculated growths and can vary in number from several to several hundred. They generally occur on eyelids, neck, and scalp among other areas. For the treatment of filiform warts, options under medical guidance include using carbon dioxide laser therapy, cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen, or removal through high-frequency electrical ion cauterization.

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Written by Li Ya Ping
Dermatology Department
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What causes filamentous warts?

Filiform warts are caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and they can spread through direct or indirect contact. They primarily present as single or multiple protruding lesions, occurring typically on eyelids and neck regions. These lesions are slender and soft, having the color of normal skin or slightly brown. Generally, there are no symptoms felt by the patient. In clinical practice, filiform warts can sometimes be confused with skin tags. In some cases, doctors might mistake skin tags as filiform warts, or vice versa, since skin tags also commonly develop in folds of the skin such as the neck and armpits. The treatment of filiform warts mainly involves physical removal methods.

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Written by Zhang Jing
Dermatology Department
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Are filiform warts an early stage of cancer?

Filiform warts are not cancer; they are caused by a virus, which means they are a viral infection that manifests as a skin disease. The pathogen responsible is the human papillomavirus, making it a benign skin condition. It is also important to note that filiform warts are different from skin tags, and many people confuse the two. In fact, these are two completely different skin conditions: filiform warts are an infectious disease, while skin tags are a benign tumor of the skin. Although both can be treated with lasers, skin tags only affect appearance, whereas filiform warts are contagious and can be transmitted to oneself or others. Therefore, if you find filiform warts, it is best to seek laser treatment at a hospital as soon as possible.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Will filiform warts grow back after removal?

Filiform warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. This disease is characterized by strong contagiosity and recursivity, with many cases likely experiencing recurrence after the initial treatment. The recurrence period varies; depending on individual immune strength, recurrences may occur about every half a month to one month. Once recurrence happens, it is necessary to treat again and remove the newly appeared warts. Some people may experience repeated recurrences and require multiple treatments to be completely cured. During the treatment period, interferon can be applied topically to prevent excessive viral proliferation. During the treatment period, it is also important to follow a proper diet and lifestyle habits. Bath sponges and towels should be used separately from other family members to prevent cross-contamination. Used items should be sun-dried and disinfected, and it is beneficial to eat foods that clear heat and reduce internal heat.

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Written by Liu Jing
Dermatology
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Filiform warts are caused by what?

Filiform warts, also known as skin tags, often have a certain family history and are common among overweight adults, particularly around the neck area. It is important to enhance skin cleanliness. Partially, the cause is a viral infection by the Human Papillomavirus, abbreviated as HPV. When necessary, physical treatments such as cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen or laser removal commonly used in clinical settings can be adopted to remove the warts. These methods are complemented by immune modulation, such as taking oral thymopentin enteric capsules, and applying interferon gel on the affected skin area to inhibit viral replication. The contagiousness is not very strong. It is advised to disinfect underwear and avoid harmful stimuli such as scratching or squeezing. (Please follow medical advice when using medications.)