Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, is a common skin infection caused by a virus. It is characterized by small, raised blisters that appear on the skin, typically on the face, neck, arms, and hands. This condition is highly contagious and is commonly found in children.
The virus that causes water warts can be easily spread through direct contact with an infected person or by touching contaminated objects, such as towels or toys. The blisters usually develop within 2 to 7 weeks after exposure to the virus and can last for several months.
Water warts are generally harmless and do not cause any serious health problems. However, they can be itchy and may cause discomfort, especially if they occur in areas of friction, such as the armpits or groin. It is important to avoid scratching or picking at the blisters to prevent the spread of the infection.
There are several treatment options available for water warts, including topical medications, cryotherapy, and curettage. These treatments aim to eliminate the blisters and prevent further spread of the virus. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment guidance.
What are Water Warts?
Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, are a common viral infection that affects the skin, especially in children. The virus that causes water warts is highly contagious and can be easily spread through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces.
Water warts appear as small, round blisters or raised bumps on the skin. These warts are usually painless and have a characteristic dimple or indentation in the center. The blisters may vary in size and can be pink, white, or flesh-colored.
Although water warts are harmless and generally resolve on their own without treatment, they can be bothersome and may cause itching, redness, or irritation. In some cases, the warts may become infected, leading to additional discomfort.
There are various treatment options available for water warts, depending on the severity of the infection and the individual’s preferences. Some common treatment methods include cryotherapy, which involves freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen, and topical creams or ointments that can help speed up the healing process.
It is important to avoid scratching or picking at water warts, as this can increase the risk of spreading the infection to other areas of the body and to other individuals. Good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing and avoiding sharing personal items, can also help prevent the spread of water warts.
In conclusion, water warts are a viral infection that affects the skin, particularly in children. These warts are characterized by small blisters or bumps and are caused by a contagious virus. While they usually resolve on their own, treatment options are available to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
Causes of Water Warts
Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, are caused by a virus called the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). This virus can be spread through direct contact with an infected person or by touching contaminated objects, such as towels or toys.
Water warts primarily affect children, especially those between the ages of 1 and 10 years old, although people of all ages can be affected. The virus enters the body through small breaks in the skin and forms small, pink or flesh-colored bumps on the skin’s surface.
Because water warts are highly contagious, they can easily spread from person to person, especially in settings where close contact is common, such as schools or childcare centers. The virus can also spread through water, such as in swimming pools or hot tubs, which is why the condition is often referred to as “water” warts.
It is important to note that water warts are not a sign of poor hygiene and can occur even in individuals who practice good personal hygiene. The infection can occur anywhere on the body, but it is most commonly found on the face, neck, arms, and hands.
If you or your child has water warts, it is important to seek treatment to prevent the virus from spreading to others. Treatment options include topical creams, freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen, or in some cases, removing the warts through surgical procedures.
In conclusion, water warts are caused by a virus known as molluscum contagiosum. The infection is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact or contact with contaminated objects. It primarily affects children and can occur anywhere on the body. Seeking treatment is important to prevent the spread of the virus and to alleviate symptoms.
Symptoms of Water Warts
Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, are a common skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus. The virus creates small, flesh-colored bumps on the skin, which are often mistaken for warts. These bumps, or warts, can range in size from a pinhead to a pencil eraser and usually appear in clusters.
One of the main symptoms of water warts is the appearance of these warts on the skin. They can appear on any part of the body, but are most common on the face, neck, armpits, and genital area. Unlike other types of warts, water warts are not usually painful or itchy.
Another symptom of water warts is the presence of blisters. The warts often have a small indentation or dimple in the center, which can become filled with fluid. These blisters may break open, leading to a crusted or scabbed appearance.
Water warts are highly contagious and can easily spread from person to person through direct contact. This is especially common among children who are more prone to sharing toys and close physical contact.
If you suspect your child may have water warts, it is important to seek medical treatment. Treatment options for water warts include topical creams, cryotherapy (freezing the warts), or removal of the warts with a scalpel or laser. It is also important to practice good hygiene and avoid scratching or picking at the warts to prevent further spread of the virus.
In summary, symptoms of water warts include the appearance of flesh-colored bumps or warts, the presence of blisters with a fluid-filled center, and easy spread from person to person. Seeking medical treatment and practicing good hygiene are essential in managing this viral infection.
Diagnosis of Water Warts
To diagnose water warts, a healthcare professional will typically perform a physical examination of the affected skin. They will look for small, flesh-colored or pinkish bumps that are dome-shaped and have a dimple in the center.
In some cases, a dermatologist may need to scrape off a small sample of the lesions to examine under a microscope. This is called a skin biopsy and can help confirm the diagnosis.
Visual Examination
During the physical examination, the healthcare provider will carefully inspect the skin for signs of water warts. They may also ask about the symptoms and medical history of the patient.
The characteristic appearance of water warts makes them relatively easy to identify, but a professional diagnosis is still recommended to rule out other skin conditions.
Skin Biopsy
In certain cases, a skin biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. This procedure involves removing a small sample of the affected skin and sending it to a laboratory for analysis.
The biopsy sample will be examined under a microscope to look for specific changes associated with water warts, such as the presence of the molluscum contagiosum virus.
It is important to note that a diagnosis of water warts can usually be made based on visual examination alone. Skin biopsies are typically reserved for rare or atypical cases.
Treatment for Water Warts
Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, are a common viral infection in children. The infection causes small skin-colored or pink bumps to appear on the skin. These bumps can sometimes form blisters and have a dimpled center.
While water warts usually go away on their own within 6 months to a year, treatment options are available to help speed up the healing process and prevent spreading of the virus to other parts of the body or to other people.
One treatment option for water warts is cryotherapy. This involves freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen, which destroys the virus and stimulates the immune system to clear the infection. Cryotherapy may cause a temporary stinging sensation or blistering in the treated area.
Another treatment option is curettage, which involves scraping off the warts using a special instrument. This method is typically performed under local anesthesia and may result in temporary scarring or skin discoloration.
Topical medications, such as creams or ointments containing chemicals that kill the virus, can also be used to treat water warts. These medications are applied directly to the affected areas and may cause redness or irritation of the skin.
In some cases, a healthcare provider may recommend a combination of treatments or a different approach depending on the severity and location of the warts. It is important for parents to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions and keep the infected area clean and dry to prevent further spread of the virus.
It is worth noting that water warts are highly contagious and can easily spread through direct skin-to-skin contact or by sharing contaminated items such as towels or clothing. To reduce the risk of infection, it is important to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently and avoiding touching or scratching the affected areas.
If you suspect that your child has water warts, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help prevent the spread of the virus and minimize discomfort for your child.
Prevention of Water Warts
Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, are a common skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). This virus can easily spread from person to person through direct contact or by touching contaminated surfaces. To prevent water warts and minimize the risk of infection, it is important to take certain precautions, especially with children.
1. Practice good hygiene:
Regularly washing hands with soap and water is essential in preventing the spread of water warts. Encourage children to wash their hands thoroughly, especially after touching their own or someone else’s warts. Use hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available.
2. Avoid direct contact:
Since water warts are highly contagious, it is advisable to avoid direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or their warts. This includes avoiding activities such as sharing towels, clothes, or personal items.
Additionally, children should be reminded not to scratch or pick at their own warts, as this can cause the virus to spread to other parts of their body.
Overall, preventing the spread of water warts requires maintaining good personal hygiene, avoiding direct contact with infected individuals or surfaces, and educating children about the importance of these measures. By taking necessary precautions, the risk of water warts can be minimized, and the infection can be controlled.
How do Water Warts Spread?
Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, are a common skin infection that primarily affects children. They are caused by a virus called molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV) and typically appear as small, flesh-colored or pink bumps on the skin.
Water warts are highly contagious and can spread from person to person through direct contact. This can include activities such as touching, scratching, or rubbing the affected area. The virus can also be spread through contact with contaminated objects, such as towels, toys, or clothing.
When water warts blisters are scratched or broken, the virus can be released, making the surrounding skin more susceptible to infection. In some cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, causing more blisters to appear.
It is important to note that water warts can be spread even if there are no visible blisters present. The virus can still be present on the skin and contagious, even after the bumps have healed.
Proper treatment and precautions can help prevent the spread of water warts. It is important to avoid touching or scratching the affected area, and to regularly wash hands with soap and water. Sharing personal items, such as towels or clothing, should be avoided to minimize the risk of spreading the infection.
If you suspect that your child has water warts, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and appropriate treatment options. Treatment may include topical creams or procedures to remove the bumps.
Risk Factors for Water Warts
Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, are a common skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus. While anyone can get water warts, certain factors can increase a person’s risk of developing the infection.
Young Children
Water warts are most commonly seen in young children, especially those between the ages of 1 and 10 years old. This is because their immune systems are still developing, making them more susceptible to infections.
Close Contact with Infected Individuals
Water warts are highly contagious and can spread from person to person through direct skin-to-skin contact or by sharing contaminated items such as towels or clothing. Close contact with infected individuals, such as in crowded places or households, increases the risk of transmission.
It is important to note that the virus can survive in water, making swimming pools and water parks potential sources of infection as well.
Weakened Immune System
A weakened immune system can make a person more prone to developing water warts. This includes individuals with certain medical conditions, such as HIV/AIDS, or those undergoing immunosuppressive treatment, such as chemotherapy.
Additionally, individuals with eczema or other skin conditions that cause breaks in the skin barrier may have an increased risk of infection.
Scratching or Rubbing Blisters
Water warts can easily be spread by scratching or rubbing the blisters. This can lead to the virus spreading to other areas of the skin, as well as to other individuals. It is important to avoid touching or picking at the blisters to minimize the risk of spreading the infection.
Overall, understanding the risk factors associated with water warts can help individuals take appropriate precautions to prevent the spread of the infection and seek timely treatment.
Complications of Water Warts
Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, are a common skin infection that primarily affects children. While they are usually harmless and resolve on their own without treatment, complications may arise in some cases.
Secondary Infection:
If the water warts are scratched or irritated, bacteria can enter the broken skin, leading to a secondary bacterial infection. This can cause redness, pain, and swelling around the warts, and may require medical treatment with antibiotics.
Spread to Other Parts of the Body:
Water warts are highly contagious, and if proper hygiene measures are not followed, they can easily spread to other areas of the body. This can result in the formation of new warts in different locations, leading to a larger area of infection.
To prevent the spread of water warts, it is important to avoid scratching or picking at the warts, and to wash hands regularly with soap and water. It is also advisable to cover the warts with a waterproof bandage or clothing to prevent direct contact with others.
Complications of Water Warts |
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Secondary Infection |
Spread to Other Parts of the Body |
If you or your child are experiencing any complications from water warts, it is recommended to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.
How are Water Warts Diagnosed?
Diagnosing water warts typically involves a visual examination by a healthcare provider. The characteristic appearance of water warts makes them relatively easy to identify. The doctor will look for clusters of small, raised blisters on the skin, which may be flesh-colored or slightly pink. These blisters can have a central dimple or depression, resembling a tiny volcano. The blisters may also be surrounded by redness and inflammation.
In some cases, a healthcare provider may want to confirm the diagnosis by scraping a small sample of fluid from a blister and examining it under a microscope. This can help determine if the blisters are caused by the water wart virus.
It’s important for parents to inform healthcare providers if their child has been in contact with someone who has water warts, as this increases the likelihood of diagnosis. Water warts are highly contagious and can easily spread through direct contact or shared objects.
If a child has multiple water warts or experiences recurring infections, the healthcare provider may recommend additional tests to rule out other underlying conditions and to evaluate the overall health of the child’s immune system.
Once water warts are diagnosed, treatment options can be discussed, which may include watchful waiting, topical treatments, or in some cases, removal of the warts.
Medical Examination for Water Warts
Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, are a common viral infection that primarily affects children. These warts appear as small, raised, and flesh-colored blisters on the skin. If you suspect your child has water warts, it is essential to seek medical examination for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnosis
During the medical examination, a healthcare professional will visually inspect the affected areas of the skin to determine if they are indeed water warts. They may also ask questions about the symptoms and the duration of the warts, as well as any previous treatments. In some cases, a sample of the wart may be collected for laboratory analysis to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
There are several treatment options available for water warts. The choice of treatment depends on the age of the patient, the number and location of the warts, and the individual’s overall health. Some common treatment methods include:
- Topical creams or ointments: These medications are applied directly to the warts and work by destroying the virus-infected cells.
- Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen to destroy the virus.
- Curettage: A healthcare professional may use a small, sharp instrument called a curette to scrape off the warts.
- Laser therapy: In some cases, laser treatment may be used to remove the warts.
It is important to note that water warts may resolve on their own without any treatment. However, they can be contagious and easily spread to other areas of the body or to other individuals through direct skin-to-skin contact. Seeking medical examination and appropriate treatment can help prevent the spread of the infection and reduce the duration of the warts.
Are Water Warts Contagious?
Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, are a common viral skin infection that primarily affects children. One of the main concerns parents have is whether water warts are contagious.
The answer is, yes, water warts are highly contagious. The virus that causes water warts, the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV), spreads easily through direct contact with an infected person or by touching contaminated objects. Children can contract the virus from playing with infected toys, sharing towels or clothes, or through close contact with an infected person, such as during wrestling or skin-to-skin contact.
Once the virus enters the body, it can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months for water warts to appear. During this time, the infected person can unknowingly spread the virus to others. The warts themselves are small, flesh-colored bumps that may have a dimple in the center. They can appear anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on the face, neck, armpits, and genital area.
Preventing the Spread of Water Warts
To prevent the spread of water warts, it is important to practice good hygiene. Encourage children to wash their hands regularly with soap and water, especially after touching their warts. Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, clothing, or toys that may have come into contact with an infected person’s warts.
If your child has water warts, it is best to keep the affected areas covered with clothing or adhesive bandages to minimize direct contact with other people. Additionally, avoid activities that involve close skin contact until the warts have completely healed.
If you suspect your child has water warts, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can provide a proper diagnosis and discuss treatment options, which may include topical creams, cryotherapy (freezing the warts), or other methods to remove the warts and prevent further spread of the virus.
In conclusion
Water warts, or molluscum contagiosum, are a contagious viral skin infection that primarily affects children. It is important to take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus, such as practicing good hygiene and avoiding direct contact with infected individuals or objects. If your child develops water warts, seek medical attention for appropriate treatment and to reduce the risk of further infection.
How are Water Warts Treated?
Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, is a common skin infection that affects children. It is caused by a virus and results in the formation of small, pearl-like warts or blisters on the skin.
When it comes to treating water warts, several options are available. In many cases, water warts go away on their own without any treatment. However, if treatment is desired or necessary, there are several methods that can be used.
1. Watchful Waiting
In most cases, water warts are harmless and resolve naturally over time. Many healthcare professionals recommend a watchful waiting approach, especially in children, as treatment may not be necessary. During this time, it is important to avoid scratching or picking at the warts, as this can lead to further infection or spreading.
2. Treatment Options
If treatment is desired or necessary, there are several treatment options available. These include:
– Topical Medications: Over-the-counter creams or gels containing antiviral substances can be applied directly to the warts to help speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of spreading.
– Cryotherapy: This treatment involves freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen, which causes them to fall off. It can be an effective option for more stubborn or persistent warts.
– Curettage: This procedure involves gently scraping the warts off the skin using a specialized instrument. It can be done under local anesthesia and is typically recommended for larger warts or when other treatments have not been successful.
– Laser Therapy: In some cases, laser therapy may be used to remove water warts. This involves using a laser to target and destroy the warts while minimizing damage to the surrounding skin. It can be an effective option for larger areas or when multiple warts are present.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment option for water warts. They can assess the severity of the infection and provide guidance on the best course of action.
Topical Treatments for Water Warts
Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, are a viral skin infection that commonly affects children. The infection causes small, raised bumps or blisters on the skin, which can be itchy and spread easily through direct contact or sharing personal items.
1. Over-the-counter remedies
There are several over-the-counter topical treatments available for water warts. These remedies typically contain ingredients such as salicylic acid or tea tree oil, which help to dry out the blisters and suppress the virus.
- Salicylic acid: This ingredient helps to shed the outer layer of the skin, allowing the blisters to heal faster. It is available in the form of creams, gels, or medicated pads.
- Tea tree oil: Known for its antiviral and antibacterial properties, tea tree oil can help to reduce inflammation and kill the virus. It can be applied directly to the water warts using a cotton swab.
2. Prescription treatments
In some cases, a dermatologist may prescribe a stronger topical treatment for water warts. These prescription medications usually contain ingredients such as imiquimod or cantharidin, which work by stimulating the immune system or causing the blisters to blister and fall off.
- Imiquimod: This cream is typically used for the treatment of genital warts, but it can also be effective against water warts. It works by boosting the body’s immune response to the virus.
- Cantharidin: This liquid is applied directly to the water warts and causes them to blister, allowing them to be easily removed. It is commonly used by dermatologists and usually requires multiple treatments.
It is important to note that these topical treatments may cause some mild side effects, such as redness, itching, or irritation. It is essential to follow the instructions provided by a healthcare professional and to consult with a dermatologist before starting any treatment.
Overall, topical treatments for water warts can help to alleviate symptoms, speed up healing, and reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others. In some cases, the water warts may resolve on their own without any treatment, but for persistent or severe cases, seeking medical advice is recommended.
Surgical Treatments for Water Warts
Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, are a common skin infection that primarily affects children. They appear as small, pink or flesh-colored bumps on the skin, often with a dimple in the center. These bumps, medically known as warts, are caused by a virus and can be highly contagious.
While water warts typically resolve on their own over time, some cases may require surgical intervention for effective treatment. Surgical treatments aim to remove the warts and prevent further infection or spread.
One surgical method for treating water warts is curettage. This procedure involves scraping off the warts using a sharp, spoon-shaped instrument called a curette. Local anesthesia is often used to numb the area before the procedure, ensuring minimal discomfort for the child. Curettage can be an effective and relatively quick solution for removing individual warts or small clusters.
Another surgical option is cryotherapy, which involves freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen. This freezing process destroys the warts by causing the infected skin cells to die and fall off. Cryotherapy is commonly used for larger areas of warts or those that do not respond to other treatments. It may require multiple sessions to completely remove the warts.
In some cases, laser therapy may be recommended for treating water warts. This procedure uses a laser to target and destroy the wart tissue. Laser therapy offers precise control and minimal damage to surrounding healthy skin. However, it may require multiple sessions and can be more expensive than other surgical options.
It is important to note that while surgical treatments can effectively remove water warts, they do not prevent future infections. To reduce the risk of reinfection, it is essential to maintain good hygiene, avoid scratching or picking at the warts, and follow any post-treatment care instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
If your child has water warts that are causing discomfort or not resolving on their own, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations. They can evaluate the severity of the condition and recommend the most suitable surgical treatment option, if necessary.
What are the Long-Term Effects of Water Warts?
Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, are a viral skin infection that commonly affects children. While water warts typically clear up on their own without treatment, there are some potential long-term effects to be aware of.
In most cases, water warts cause small, painless blisters to appear on the skin. These warts can be contagious and spread easily through direct skin-to-skin contact or by sharing personal items such as towels or clothing. Children, especially those with weakened immune systems, are particularly susceptible to contracting water warts.
One potential long-term effect of water warts is scarring. If the blisters are scratched or picked at, the skin can become irritated and inflamed. This can lead to the formation of scars, which can be permanent. It is important to avoid scratching or irritating the warts to minimize the risk of scarring.
Another long-term effect of water warts is the possibility of secondary bacterial infections. When the blisters burst, they can leave open sores on the skin. These sores can become infected with bacteria, leading to additional complications. It is crucial to keep the affected area clean and avoid touching or picking at the warts to reduce the risk of infection.
While rare, there have been reports of water warts causing persistent or recurrent infections in some individuals. In such cases, the warts may continue to appear or spread, requiring ongoing treatment to control the infection. It is important to seek medical advice if water warts persist or worsen over time.
In conclusion, while water warts are generally harmless and resolve without long-term consequences, there are potential risks to be aware of. Scarring, secondary infections, and persistent or recurrent infections are some of the long-term effects associated with water warts. By taking precautionary measures and seeking appropriate treatment, these risks can be minimized.
FAQs about Water Warts
Q: What are water warts?
A: Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, are a common skin infection caused by a virus. They appear as small, flesh-colored bumps or blisters on the skin.
Q: How are water warts spread?
A: Water warts are highly contagious and can be spread from person to person through direct contact. Sharing towels, clothing, or other personal items can also spread the infection.
Q: Who is at risk for water warts?
A: Water warts are most common in children, especially those who have weakened immune systems. However, adults can also get water warts, particularly if they come into close contact with an infected person.
Q: Are water warts painful?
A: Water warts are usually not painful, but they can be itchy or irritated. Scratching or picking at the warts can cause them to spread or become infected.
Q: How long do water warts last?
A: In most cases, water warts will go away on their own within 6-12 months. However, it can take up to 2 years for all the warts to disappear completely.
Q: Can water warts be treated?
A: Yes, there are several treatment options available for water warts. These include cryotherapy (freezing), topical creams or ointments, and laser therapy. It is best to consult with a healthcare professional for the most appropriate treatment for your specific case.
Q: How can water warts be prevented?
A: The best way to prevent water warts is to avoid close contact with people who have the infection. It is also important to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly and not sharing personal items. If you or your child has water warts, keep the affected areas clean and covered to prevent spreading.
Question and answer:
What are water warts?
Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, are a common viral skin infection that causes small, raised bumps on the skin.
How are water warts transmitted?
Water warts are transmitted through direct contact with the skin of an infected person. They can also spread through contact with contaminated objects, such as towels or toys.
What are the symptoms of water warts?
The main symptom of water warts is the presence of small, flesh-colored or pearly bumps on the skin. These bumps may have a dimple or indentation in the center and can be itchy or painful.
Can water warts be treated?
Yes, water warts can be treated. Treatment options include topical medications, such as creams or ointments, that help to destroy the virus. In some cases, physical removal of the bumps may be necessary.
How long do water warts last?
Water warts usually go away on their own within 6 to 12 months. However, in some cases, they may persist for longer periods of time.
What are water warts?
Water warts, also known as molluscum contagiosum, are a viral infection that causes small, flesh-colored bumps on the skin.
How are water warts spread?
Water warts are highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infected person or by touching contaminated objects.
What are the symptoms of water warts?
The main symptom of water warts is the appearance of small, smooth, dome-shaped bumps on the skin. These bumps are usually painless but can become itchy or inflamed.
Can water warts be prevented?
There are several measures you can take to reduce the risk of contracting water warts. These include practicing good hygiene, avoiding direct contact with infected individuals, and not sharing personal items such as towels or clothing.
How are water warts treated?
Water warts usually go away on their own within a few months to a year. However, if treatment is desired, options include cryotherapy, topical medications, and curettage.