Warts are small, skin-colored growths caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) and typically appear as raised, rough bumps. Although they are usually harmless and may resolve on their own within 1 to 2 years, they can require medical treatment based on their location and symptoms.

Warts are characterized by one or more round, raised, rough surfaces on the skin; they are typically found on the hands or feet and may display small black dots from clotted blood vessels. Although they are often asymptomatic, warts can negatively affect quality of life due to physical discomfort or concerns about their appearance.

Warts are diagnosed by health care providers through a clinical exam based on their visual appearance, and, if there is uncertainty, a skin biopsy may be performed to exclude other skin growths. Although PCR genotyping can identify the specific HPV (human papilloma virus) type that causes the warts, this information does not influence the treatment recommendations.

For new warts, watchful waiting may be advised because many resolve on their own; the main medical treatments include topical medications like salicylic acid and cryotherapy. Salicylic acid is often the first-line treatment, with a 50% to 70% cure rate, and cryotherapy involves applying liquid nitrogen to destroy wart cells and stimulate the immune system.

Several supplements have been studied for warts — including vitamin B12, folate, ferritin, vitamin D, echinacea, zinc, and vitamin A — and have shown varying degrees of efficacy.

Research on diet's effect on warts is limited, but some studies suggest that a higher intake of whole fruits, seafood, and plant protein may be associated with the resolution of HPV (human papilloma virus) infections. Additionally, dietary habits that support the immune system, like eating more fruits and vegetables, could potentially reduce the risk of warts or aid in their clearance.

In addition to common treatments like salicylic acid and cryotherapy, other treatments for warts exist, including topical antiviral agents, intralesional bleomycin, laser removal, and electrocautery, though many lack rigorous testing for efficacy. Alternative methods such as duct tape covering and photodynamic therapy are also mentioned, but high-quality evidence supporting their effectiveness is currently limited.

Warts are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), and only a few strains lead to wart formation. The virus spreads through skin contact or sharing of contaminated objects, and whether a wart develops depends on the individual's immune response.