HPV Virus Treatment

The human papillomavirus (HPV) comes in over 100 varieties, the most common causing genital wards and some different types of cancer. Vaccines are available to help protect against the common strains that are likely to cause genital warts or cervical cancer. Spectrum Dermatology of Atlanta offers virus treatment at our clinic in Alpharetta, GA.

The HPV virus produces four main types of warts:

• Genital warts – These appear as flat lesions, small cauliflower-like bumps that may itch or feel tender but rarely cause pain.
• Common warts – These warts appear as rough, raised bumps and usually occur on the hands and fingers. They can also be painful or susceptible to injury or bleeding.
• Plantar warts – These are hard, grainy growths that usually appear on the heels or balls of your feet, causing discomfort, especially when walking or standing.
• Flat warts – Flat warts are flat-topped lesions that can appear anywhere; women typically grow them on the legs, men in their beard area and children usually get them on the face.

As always, you should see a dermatologist for an evaluation when you or your child develop any type or size warts. Many are harmless, but warts produced by the HPV virus can develop into cervical cancer over time.

Genital Wart Removal, Treatment for HPV Virus Symptoms

Many warts go away without treatment, but it is essential to let the medical team at Spectrum Dermatology of Atlanta know about any warts. They can determine if a “wait and see” approach is best or if treatment is warranted. Topical medications are often the first recommendation for treatment to eliminate warts. Other options include cryotherapy, electrocautery or surgical removal of the warts.

Our medical team can treat or remove genital warts or lesions from elsewhere on the body. We also perform laboratory testing on all removed warts to determine if cancer cells are present. Because the HPV virus is directly linked to cervical cancer, we recommend getting vaccinated to protect yourself. Once you have contracted the HPV virus, outbreaks of warts can reoccur.

If you have questions about the HPV virus or HPV virus treatment, including removing genital warts or issues with cervical cancer, don’t delay contacting Spectrum Dermatology of Atlanta.