What virus causes filiform warts?

Sep 04, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

Filiform warts are caused by infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), and are mostly associated with low-risk HPV types. These viruses primarily infect the epidermal layer of the skin and usually do not cause serious health problems. In daily life, it is important to maintain personal hygiene, avoid sharing personal items with others, and reduce opportunities for viral contact. Additionally, keeping the skin intact and avoiding frequent scratching can help lower the risk of viral invasion.

Generally, filiform warts are caused by infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), typically involving low-risk HPV types. These viruses primarily affect the epidermis and usually do not cause serious health problems. A detailed explanation is as follows:

Human papillomavirus is a large viral family comprising multiple subtypes. Based on their pathogenic potential, HPV types are categorized as high-risk or low-risk. Filiform warts are commonly associated with low-risk HPV types, such as HPV types 1, 2, and 4. These subtypes primarily affect the skin surface without invading deeper tissues or causing malignant changes. They lead to abnormal proliferation of epidermal cells, forming slender, soft skin growths known as filiform warts.

Low-risk HPV is mainly transmitted through direct or indirect skin contact. For example, sharing towels, clothing, or razors with an infected individual, or direct skin contact with a wart, can allow the virus to enter the body through minor skin abrasions and cause infection.

In daily life, it is important to maintain personal hygiene, avoid sharing personal items, and minimize opportunities for viral exposure. Additionally, keeping the skin intact and avoiding frequent scratching can help reduce the risk of viral entry.

View All

What causes small grain-like bumps on the neck, and how should they be treated?

In general, the main causes of small grain-like bumps on the neck include sebaceous gland blockage, friction irritation, filiform warts, molluscum contagiosum, and folliculitis. Depending on the specific condition, patients may improve symptoms through conservative management, medication, or surgical treatment. In daily life, it is important to maintain neck cleanliness and use gentle skincare and cleansing products.

View Full Answer

What causes the growth of filiform warts?

Under normal circumstances, the development of filiform warts may be caused by factors such as weakened skin barrier function, prolonged friction on localized skin areas, infection with low-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), spread of flat warts, or evolution from common warts. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, it is important to maintain skin cleanliness, avoid scratching affected areas with hands, and prevent the spread of the virus.

View Full Answer

What is the best ointment for treating filiform warts?

Under normal circumstances, there is no definitive answer to the question "what topical medication is best for treating filiform warts," as treatment effectiveness may vary among individuals. Commonly used topical medications include tretinoin cream, imiquimod cream, fluorouracil ointment, salicylic acid ointment, and interferon gel, which should be appropriately selected based on individual circumstances. Tretinoin cream works by regulating epidermal cell growth and promoting the shedding of warts.

View Full Answer

Do filiform warts spread to family members?

In general, filiform warts can be contagious to family members, but not all contact leads to transmission. The likelihood of transmission depends on factors such as the mode of contact and the skin condition of family members. It is important to avoid direct or indirect close contact in daily life to reduce the risk of infection. To minimize the risk of transmitting the infection to family members, patients should use personal hygiene items separately and regularly wash and disinfect towels, clothing, and other items.