Wart removal

Alternative Names

Removal of warts

Information

Question:

Can warts be safely removed without seeing a dermatologist?

Answer:

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications containing salicylic acid are often effective in removing warts. These medications are usually a liquid that can be painted onto the wart, or a pad that is placed over the wart. An OTC device to freeze warts is also available.

Some people think that covering the wart with duct tape may help it go away. However, studies have not proven that this works.

Any wart that does not respond to OTC treatments should be examined by a dermatologist. See: Warts

References

Habif TM. Warts, herpes simplex, and other viral infections. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2009:chap 12.


Review Date: 11/22/2011
Reviewed By: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
adam.com