Symptoms and Diagnosis: Distinguishing Warts from Other Conditions

Warts are common, usually harmless skin growths caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Because they can look similar to other skin conditions, understanding their typical symptoms and appearance can help when deciding whether to seek professional input. This article explores how warts are identified, how they differ from conditions like corns, calluses, and skin tags, and when to consider medical advice. Information is general in nature and should not replace professional diagnosis or care.

Warts are benign skin growths that develop when certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) infect the skin.

The virus enters through small cuts or breaks in the skin and stimulates the rapid growth of cells on the outer layer, resulting in a raised bump or patch of thickened skin. They are relatively common and, in most cases, considered harmless.

However, because warts can resemble other types of skin conditions, it is not always possible to identify them with certainty without professional input. A healthcare professional can help confirm whether a skin growth is a wart or something else.

Warts can vary in appearance, but there are some features that commonly occur. Many warts have a rough or grainy surface, which can make them feel different from the surrounding skin.

In terms of appearance, warts are often small and flesh-coloured, though they can also appear white, pink, or brown depending on the individual and the part of the body affected. Some warts may have small black dots, which are tiny blood vessels that have clotted within the wart.

Warts may grow as a single lesion or appear in clusters. For example, plantar warts on the feet sometimes develop in groups called ‘mosaic warts’.

While most warts do not cause significant discomfort, they can sometimes be tender when pressure is applied, especially on weight-bearing areas like the soles of the feet. This is why plantar warts can be bothersome when walking or standing for long periods.

Plantar warts are a specific type of wart that develop on the soles of the feet. Because they occur in weight-bearing areas, the pressure from walking and standing often causes them to appear flatter than other types of warts. This can make them blend into the surrounding skin more than raised warts on the hands or fingers.

Over time, plantar warts may develop a hard, thickened surface as layers of skin build up from the repeated pressure. They often contain small black pinpoints, which are tiny blood vessels that have clotted within the wart. These pinpoints can help distinguish plantar warts from other rough patches of skin on the feet.

For some people, plantar warts may cause discomfort or tenderness when pressure is applied, especially if they are located on areas of the sole that bear the most weight. This can sometimes make walking or standing for extended periods uncomfortable.

Warts are usually diagnosed through a visual inspection by a healthcare professional. In most cases, the appearance of the wart, its size, texture, and location are enough to make a diagnosis.

A healthcare professional may look closely at features such as whether the surface is rough or grainy, if there are black pinpoints, or whether the growth interrupts normal skin lines. These details can help confirm whether the growth is likely to be a wart rather than another skin condition.

In most situations, invasive testing is not required. If the diagnosis is uncertain, or if the growth appears unusual, a healthcare professional may recommend further examination or referral to a specialist.

Some skin conditions can look similar to warts, which is why it may be difficult to tell the difference without professional input.

For example, corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin that form due to friction or pressure, often on the feet. Unlike warts, they do not contain tiny blood vessels and usually form over bony areas.

Moles are another common growth, typically darker in colour and caused by pigmented skin cells rather than a viral infection.

Skin tags are soft, small, and often hang from the skin’s surface, appearing different in shape and texture from warts.

Because these conditions can overlap in appearance, especially when growths change in colour, size, or shape, it is important to seek professional advice if there is any uncertainty.

Accurate diagnosis helps ensure that the growth is managed appropriately and that other conditions are not overlooked.

In many cases, warts and other skin growths are harmless and may not require immediate attention. However, it can be helpful to seek medical advice if a growth becomes painful, spreads to other areas, or does not improve over time.

Professional input is also recommended if there is uncertainty about the diagnosis, particularly when a growth changes in appearance or does not resemble a typical wart.

Reassuringly, most skin growths are not serious but having them checked by a healthcare professional can provide peace of mind and clarity. A professional assessment can help confirm whether the growth is indeed a wart or another condition that might require different management.

Ultimately, seeking medical advice is not just about addressing symptoms, it is also about ensuring that skin changes are properly understood. Taking this step can support confidence in how to manage the condition and help avoid unnecessary worry.

What causes warts to develop?

Warts are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus can enter the skin through small cuts or breaks, leading to an overgrowth of skin cells. Not everyone who comes into contact with HPV will develop warts, as it can depend on factors such as the individual’s immune response.

Do warts always need treatment?

Not always. Many warts are harmless and may eventually go away on their own, although this can take time. People often choose to manage warts if they are bothersome, uncomfortable, or spreading. A healthcare professional can help advise whether treatment is recommended in individual cases.

How can I tell if a growth is a wart or something else?

Warts often have a rough, grainy texture and may appear flesh-coloured, white, pink, or brown. However, other skin conditions such as corns, calluses, moles, or skin tags can sometimes look similar. If there is any uncertainty, a healthcare professional can provide a clearer diagnosis.

Are plantar warts different from other types of warts?

Yes. Plantar warts occur on the soles of the feet and may look flatter than warts on other parts of the body due to the pressure of walking. They may also develop a hard surface with black pinpoints, which are tiny blood vessels. Because they are in weight-bearing areas, plantar warts can sometimes cause discomfort when walking or standing.

When should I see a healthcare professional about warts?

It may be a good idea to seek advice if a wart is painful, spreading, persistent, or if you are unsure whether the growth is a wart. Professional guidance is also recommended for people with pre-existing health conditions, or if the wart is located in a sensitive area.