It also occurs commonly on the genitalia and can cause a vaginal discharge in women. It is more common in people with diabetes mellitus, and appears as itchy red spots or patches.

There is no perfect treatment for warts. Treatment consists of destroying the outer layer of skin where the wart grows on. This can be done by surgery (including excision, electrocautery and carbon dioxide laser), cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen) or with topical applications like salicylic acid, 5 fluorouracil and imiquimod. The doctor will decide on the method of treatment depending on the location and size of the warts. Sometimes new warts can develop while existing ones are being destroyed. We will continue to treat until all warts are clear. In patients whose warts do not respond to the usual treatment, the doctor may offer various forms of immunotherapy (MMR, Gardasil, DCP).

No matter what treatment is used, warts occasionally fail to disappear. Warts may return weeks or even months after an apparent cure. There is no need to worry if a wart recurs; just consult your dermatologist for further therapy. The treatment may be repeated, or a different method may be used to get rid of the warts.

Liquid Nitrogen Treatment

Liquid nitrogen is the most common treatment method used for warts at this centre. Your wart and the surrounding skin becomes extremely cold when the liquid nitrogen is applied during treatment. Occasionally this may result in the formation of a blister, which is normal. There may be temporary pain which can be eased with painkillers, if necessary.

There is no need to cover the treated areas if the blisters are intact. Should there be a painful blister, you may prick it with a sterile needle. A simple dressing may be necessary if the skin is broken.

There is no need to apply any medications other than those prescribed.

At least a week must lapse between treatments, even if a blister does not form.