Why Do Men Develop Filiform Warts?
Sep 05, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the main causes of filiform warts in men include weakened skin barrier function, decreased immune function, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, seborrheic dermatitis, and infections associated with diabetes. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, one should pay attention to avoiding sharing personal items such as towels and razors with others.
Generally, the main causes of men developing filiform warts include weakened skin barrier function, decreased immune function, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, seborrheic dermatitis, and infections associated with diabetes. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely treatment at a regular hospital. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Weakened Skin Barrier Function
With aging or frequent friction, excessive cleaning, and damage to the male skin stratum corneum, the skin barrier function weakens, making it more susceptible to external pathogens and increasing the likelihood of developing filiform warts. In daily life, avoid frequently using irritating cleansers, apply a gentle moisturizing lotion, such as vitamin E cream, after washing the face, reduce skin friction, and take sun protection measures when going outdoors to protect the skin barrier.
2. Decreased Immune Function
Long-term熬夜, excessive fatigue, or high levels of mental stress can lead to reduced immune function in men, making it difficult for the body to effectively eliminate pathogens and increasing susceptibility to filiform warts. It is important to adjust one's schedule, ensure 7-8 hours of sleep daily, enhance physical fitness through exercises like running or swimming, and consume more protein-rich foods such as milk and lean meat to boost immunity.
3. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection
Direct or indirect contact with HPV allows the virus to invade epidermal skin cells, where it continuously replicates and proliferates, causing abnormal skin growth and forming filiform warts. Under a doctor's guidance, topical medications such as imiquimod cream, fluorouracil ointment, or recombinant human interferon α-2b gel may be used to inhibit viral replication. Cryotherapy or laser therapy can also be employed to remove the warts.
4. Seborrheic Dermatitis
Excessive sebum production on areas such as the scalp and neck can lead to seborrheic dermatitis. The inflammatory irritation damages the skin barrier, increasing the risk of HPV infection and consequently triggering filiform warts. Under medical guidance, use ketoconazole shampoo, selenium sulfide shampoo, vitamin B6 tablets, and other medications to reduce sebum secretion and alleviate inflammation. Additionally, keep the affected area clean and dry.
5. Diabetes with Infection
Poor glycemic control in diabetic patients can impair immune function, and a high blood sugar environment promotes pathogen growth, increasing the likelihood of HPV infection and resulting in filiform warts. Under a doctor's supervision, take medications such as metformin hydrochloride tablets, gliclazide modified-release tablets, or insulin injections to control blood sugar levels. Topical application of recombinant human interferon α-2b gel can help inhibit viral infection, and wart excision surgery may be necessary when indicated.
In daily life, avoid sharing personal items such as towels and razors with others; maintain skin cleanliness and avoid scratching affected areas; undergo regular medical checkups to detect and manage underlying conditions promptly; and strengthen health awareness to reduce the risk of filiform warts.
