What causes the growth of filiform warts?

Sep 05, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

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.

Generally, 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), the spread of flat warts, or the evolution of common warts. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention to determine the underlying cause and undergo appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Weakened skin barrier function: Thin stratum corneum and reduced sebaceous gland secretion make the skin more susceptible to pathogen invasion, increasing the likelihood of developing filiform warts. Daily skincare should include proper moisturization using gentle moisturizing lotions. Frequent use of exfoliating products should be avoided to reduce skin irritation.

2. Prolonged friction on localized skin: Skin on areas such as the neck and eyelids may experience long-term friction from clothing collars, eyeglass frames, etc., leading to skin damage, which provides an entry point for pathogens. It is advisable to wear loose, soft clothing and adjust the position of eyeglass frames to reduce localized skin friction.

3. Infection with low-risk types of human papillomavirus: Infection of the skin with low-risk HPV types such as HPV 2, 4, and 7 can cause abnormal proliferation of epidermal cells, resulting in the formation of filiform warts. Patients may use medications such as recombinant human interferon α2b gel, imiquimod cream, or fluorouracil ointment as directed by a physician.

4. Spread of flat warts: Flat warts are caused by HPV infection. If left untreated, the virus may spread to surrounding skin areas and gradually develop into filiform warts. In addition to the antiviral medications mentioned above, cryotherapy may be performed under a doctor's supervision, using low temperatures to destroy wart tissue and promote its removal.

5. Evolution of common warts: Common warts initially appear as rough papules. If left untreated for a long time, some may gradually evolve into filiform projections, forming filiform warts. Patients may undergo laser therapy under medical guidance to remove the warts using high-energy heat. Additionally, medications such as salicylic acid ointment, tretinoin cream, or tazarotene gel may be used as adjunctive treatments.

In daily life, it is important to maintain skin cleanliness and avoid scratching affected areas with hands to prevent viral spread. Personal hygiene should also be emphasized—personal items such as towels and basins should not be shared with others to reduce the risk of cross-infection.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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What are the simplest methods for removing filiform warts?

In general, there is no single "simplest method for removing filiform warts." Commonly used simple approaches include cryotherapy, laser therapy, topical medication application, electrocautery, and surgical excision, and the appropriate method should be selected based on the specific condition of the wart. Cryotherapy uses the low temperature of liquid nitrogen to cause the wart tissue to necrose and fall off. It is a quick procedure, usually completed in one session, and is suitable for small-sized filiform warts.