Canadian Living: Dr. Richard Thomas, MD, FRCPC

Answers from Expert: Dr. Richard Thomas, MD, FRCPC

For a number of years now, I have been breaking out in warts on my face, legs and body. Can you tell me how to get rid of them?

My first question is whether these are really warts. By warts I mean a viral infection caused by HPV virus. There are over 80 subtypes. These warts have evolved to be on specific parts of the skin. For example, HPV 6 and 11 will grow on genital skin and will not involve other body parts. Often facial warts are flat warts (HPV 11). So when you tell me that these are on the face and other places I have to ask the question. This is not to say that they cannot be warts but it raises suspicion. I suggest that you see a dermatologist. For more information on warts, click here. Richard Thomas, MD