Warts &Molluscum
Conveniently located to serve Alpharetta, John's Creek, Milton, and Roswell
Warts and molluscum contagiosum create persistent skin concerns that affect daily activities and social interactions for both children and adults. At House of Dermatology in Alpharetta, Dr. Ravi R. Patel provides targeted medical treatments that effectively address these viral skin conditions using proven dermatological methods.
Understanding Warts and Molluscum Contagiosum
Warts develop when human papillomavirus (HPV) infects the top layer of skin through small cuts or breaks. These growths appear as rough, raised bumps that can spread through direct contact or contaminated surfaces. Common warts typically form on hands and fingers, while plantar warts develop on the soles of the feet.
Molluscum contagiosum results from a poxvirus infection that creates small, dome-shaped bumps with characteristic central dimples. This condition spreads easily among children through skin contact, shared towels, or contaminated surfaces. The bumps often appear in clusters on the torso, arms, or face.
Both conditions resolve naturally over time, but medical intervention accelerates healing and prevents transmission to others.
Recognizing Symptoms
Wart Symptoms:
- Rough, grainy texture on the skin surface
- Small black dots within the growth
- Pain when pressure is applied
- Irregular, cauliflower-like appearance
Molluscum Contagiosum Symptoms:
- Small, flesh-colored or pink bumps
- Central dimple or white core
- Smooth, dome-shaped appearance
- Clusters of 10-20 lesions
Medical Treatment Options
Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze abnormal tissue. This method destroys infected cells and stimulates an immune response. Treatment sessions last several minutes, and healing occurs over two to three weeks.
Topical Medications include prescription-strength solutions applied directly to affected areas. Imiquimod cream modifies local immune response, while cantharidin causes controlled blistering that lifts warts from healthy skin.
Curettage involves surgical removal using specialized instruments. For larger or resistant growths, Dr. Patel performs this procedure under local anesthesia. The technique provides immediate results with minimal tissue damage.
Laser Therapy targets infected tissue using focused light energy. This approach works effectively for multiple lesions or areas where other treatments prove challenging.
Candidacy for Treatment
Patients benefit from professional treatment when growths interfere with normal activities, spread rapidly, or cause physical discomfort. Children with molluscum in visible areas often require intervention before school activities or sports participation.
Adults working in healthcare, food service, or other contact-intensive environments should seek prompt treatment to prevent workplace transmission. Individuals with compromised immune systems require specialized care to prevent complications.
Benefits of Professional Treatment
Medical intervention reduces healing time from months to weeks in most cases. Professional removal prevents scarring that can result from scratching or home remedies. Treatment stops viral spread to family members, classmates, or coworkers.
Dr. Patel’s expertise in dermatologic surgery in Alpharetta minimizes tissue damage while maximizing treatment effectiveness. Proper medical care prevents secondary bacterial infections that commonly develop when lesions become irritated.
Treatment Process
The initial consultation includes a comprehensive skin examination and an accurate diagnosis. Dr. Patel discusses treatment options based on the lesion location, patient age, and medical history. Most procedures are completed within a single office visit.
Follow-up appointments monitor healing progress and address any new lesions. Complete resolution typically occurs within 4-6 weeks, depending on treatment method and individual response.
Post-Treatment Care
Proper wound care prevents infection and promotes optimal healing. Patients receive detailed instructions for home care, including when to change dressings and recognize signs of complications. Activity modifications may be necessary during healing, particularly for plantar warts or lesions in friction-prone areas. Most patients return to normal activities within one to two weeks.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
The cost of wart and molluscum treatment varies based on several factors, including the number of lesions, the treatment method selected, and the number of sessions required. Many insurance plans cover medically necessary wart and molluscum treatments, particularly when lesions cause pain, interfere with daily activities, or pose infection risks. However, cosmetic removal may not receive insurance coverage.
Why Choose House of Dermatology
Dr. Ravi R. Patel holds dual board certification in Dermatology and Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery. This specialized training provides advanced expertise in precise tissue removal and optimal healing outcomes.
The practice serves patients throughout Alpharetta, John’s Creek, Milton, and Roswell with convenient scheduling and comprehensive care. Modern treatment methods reduce discomfort while delivering effective results for patients of all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can warts or molluscum contagiosum resolve without treatment?
Yes. Warts and molluscum lesions may disappear spontaneously within months to years. However, treatment can accelerate clearance and reduce transmission risk.
Are these conditions contagious to others?
Both conditions are contagious via direct contact or contaminated surfaces. Medical treatment helps limit the spread.
Is treatment painful?
Pain levels vary by procedure and individual tolerance. House of Dermatology applies topical anesthetics or comfort techniques when appropriate.
How many treatments are usually needed?
Treatment sessions range from one to multiple, depending on lesion extent and response.
Is there a risk of scarring?
When performed by a trained practitioner, most treatments result in minimal or no noticeable scarring.
Book your Consultation
Schedule a consultation at House of Dermatology to receive a professional evaluation of your skin growths. Dr. Patel will examine your lesions, discuss treatment options, and develop a care plan specific to your condition.