Flat Warts

The scientific term for the Flat Wart is Verruca plana. It is a type of Common Wart. This growth is also referred to as the Plane Wart. Furthermore, because of its tendency to appear on children and young adults, it is also called “Juvenile Warts.”

Distinguishing characteristics of this type of wart include its size and texture. The Flat Wart is small. In fact, it may be described as pin-sized. It may range from only 1 to 5 mm. This is less than a ¼”. The growths are smooth and pink, yellowish-brown or flesh-colored. The surface of the wart is usually slightly raised. The lumps are marked out by a flat top on this surface.

Flat Warts are rarely found alone. Of all the warts, Flat Warts commonly appear in multiple groups. These can range from 20 to 100. They also tend to form a pattern. This can be the result of a trauma or, more likely, from scratching. Flat Warts may be itchy. As a result, a child will scratch the wart. This opens up susceptible skin for the HPV infection. The wart then expands along the scratch line.

To add to the problem of numbers is the location. Flat Warts grow on the face hands and shin, forearms, knees and neck. Among children and adolescents, however, Flat Warts are more commonly located on the wrist and face. It is this latter location that creates 2 problems. It accounts for an initial misconception the warts may actually be acne. It also creates social discomfort. Flat Warts on the face are extremely embarrassing for youth.

Among adults, Flat Warts tend to be present on the face and legs. They form on male adults close to the beard. This is the result of shaving. It is here the irritated and broken skin is most susceptible to this specific type of HPV. For female adults, legs are the target area. This is true only for those who shave. As in the case of beards, the skin becomes broken and irritated. It is thus more open for an incursion.

Flat Warts are harmless but tend to be persistent. They may remain for several years. Their numbers are also a factor in treatment. Their spread pattern and sheer numbers makes treatment more difficult.