Throughout history, warts have been mistakenly attributed to various sources, such as sea foam, boiled egg water, and notably, toads. However, modern science has exonerated toads, revealing that their bumpy skin is due to mucus and poison-secreting glands, not warts. The real culprits behind warts are papillomaviruses, a diverse family of viruses that infect multiple species, including humans.
There are over 200 types of human papillomaviruses (HPVs), each incapable of reproducing independently. Instead, HPVs hijack our skin cells to replicate. They target the basal cells, which are responsible for generating new skin cells and form the base of the epidermis, the skin’s outermost layer.
The skin, our largest organ, acts as a waterproof, immune barrier, safeguarding the body from numerous pathogens. If HPVs manage to bypass this defense, they can trigger a series of immune responses. However, they have a higher chance of reaching the basal cell layer when the skin is wet, softened, or injured, even with minor cuts. This is why warts commonly appear on hands and feet, areas frequently exposed to foreign surfaces and minor injuries, especially in wet environments like shower rooms.
Once HPV infiltrates the basal cell layer, it releases its genome, prompting basal cells to multiply rapidly, delay cell death, and replicate the virus. The infected cells then proliferate, accumulating as they move towards the skin’s surface, forming a wart. The appearance of a wart varies based on several factors, including the type of HPV and the body part it infects.
Common warts are typically domed and found on hands, elbows, and knees. Plantar warts occur on the soles of the feet, where walking may flatten them. Filiform warts appear around the mouth and eyes, while flat warts are found on the legs and face. Warts may also feature small black dots, which are tiny blood clots from obstructed capillaries.
When infected skin cells die, they release thousands of HPVs, potentially spreading the virus to other body parts or individuals. The likelihood of transmission depends on the HPV type and the body part it infects. Most HPVs cause benign warts on different skin areas. However, some prefer the body’s mucosal epithelia, lining the reproductive, digestive, and respiratory tracts. These HPVs are common sexually transmitted infections and, while usually benign, can persist and lead to cancers. In such cases, doctors may recommend topical or surgical treatments.
HPV vaccines, available since 2006, are nearly 100% effective in preventing infections from the most dangerous HPV types. Although the body often suppresses or resolves HPV infections within a few years, some individuals are more susceptible, and certain HPV types are more persistent. Factors like handling meat and fish, age, compromised immunity, or skin flora can increase vulnerability to HPV infections.
While most warts are harmless and resolve without intervention, they remain contagious. Dermatologists offer treatments to help the body clear them. Some methods stimulate the immune system directly, while others, like salicylic acid and cryotherapy, irritate the infected area, indirectly activating an immune response. Fortunately, numerous options are available to address wart concerns, eliminating the need to blame toads.
Design a poster that debunks common myths about warts. Use information from the article to explain the real causes of warts and why toads are not responsible. Make your poster colorful and engaging to educate others.
Draw a comic strip that illustrates the life cycle of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Show how the virus infects the basal cells, replicates, and forms a wart. Use captions and speech bubbles to make the process clear and entertaining.
In groups, create a short skit that demonstrates how warts can be transmitted from one person to another. Include scenarios like using shared towels or walking barefoot in wet areas. Highlight the importance of hygiene and prevention.
Research different types of human papillomaviruses (HPVs) and create a presentation. Include information on how each type affects the body, the symptoms they cause, and the available treatments. Present your findings to the class.
Conduct a simple experiment to understand how treatments like salicylic acid and cryotherapy work. Use safe, non-toxic materials to simulate the irritation process that activates the immune response. Document your observations and share your results.
Warts – Small, rough growths on the skin caused by a virus. – Example sentence: Warts can appear on any part of the body and are often caused by touching a surface that has the virus.
HPVs – A group of viruses known as human papillomaviruses that can cause warts and other health issues. – Example sentence: Some HPVs can lead to warts, while others might cause more serious health problems.
Skin – The outer covering of the body that protects it from the environment. – Example sentence: The skin acts as a barrier to protect the body from infections and harmful substances.
Cells – The basic building blocks of all living organisms. – Example sentence: Skin cells are constantly being replaced as they wear out and fall off.
Immune – Related to the body’s defense system that fights off infections and diseases. – Example sentence: A strong immune system helps protect the body from viruses like those that cause warts.
Virus – A tiny organism that can cause diseases in living things. – Example sentence: The virus that causes warts can be spread through direct contact with an infected person.
Treatment – The medical care given to a patient for an illness or injury. – Example sentence: Treatment for warts may include applying special creams or freezing them off.
Prevention – Actions taken to stop something from happening, especially diseases. – Example sentence: Good hygiene and avoiding direct contact with warts are important for prevention.
Infection – The invasion and multiplication of harmful organisms in the body. – Example sentence: An infection can occur if the skin is broken and bacteria or viruses enter the body.
Papillomaviruses – A group of viruses that can cause warts and other growths on the skin. – Example sentence: Papillomaviruses are responsible for most cases of warts found on the skin.
