What is “verruca”?

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease)

Verruca is the Latin word for wart. When doctors talk about warts, they may use this term, which is pronounced vuh-ROO-kah. There are many different types of warts, which are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The medical names for different types of warts start with verruca. For instance, common warts are called verruca vulgaris. Plantar warts, which form on the feet, are called verruca plantaris.

Continue Learning about Warts

In the children’s book The Witch with a Wart, an old hag discovers she has a wart on her nose (of course!). Eager to have it disappear, she brews up a...

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

Warts can almost always be diagnosed through visual inspection of the affected area by a physici...

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

Yes, quite often. However, warts can also spread to other parts of your body, so it's best to treat ...

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

Because warts populate through a virus (the human papillomavirus, or HPV), they can spread to othe...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Warts

Where warts grow determines the best course of treatment. The human papillomavirus, or HPV, causes warts, which frequently appear on the hands. They can be embarrassing on the face and itch or hurt if they grow on the soles of the feet or appear in or around the genitals. Doctors do not recommend over-the-counter wart-removal medications for warts on the face or for genital warts. Some warts require stronger prescription medication or a surgical technique that includes freezing, burning or laser treatment.

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