Question

Warts are caused by a. human papillomavirus. b. herpes simplex virus. c. adenoviruses. d. parvovirus \(\mathrm{B} 19\).

Short answer

Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus.

Step-by-step solution

- Identify the cause of warts

Warts are skin growths that are caused by the human papillomavirus, not the other viruses listed.

Key concepts

Human Papillomavirus

The human papillomavirus, commonly abbreviated as HPV, is a widespread virus with over 100 different types, a number of which are associated with various skin and mucosal lesions. One of the most well-known manifestations of an HPV infection is the development of warts, benign skin growths that can appear on different parts of the body. Different strains of HPV are responsible for different types of warts, such as common warts (often found on the fingers and hands), plantar warts (on the soles of the feet), and genital warts.

The way HPV causes warts is through direct contact, either from person to person or through contact with a surface that has been touched by someone with the virus. Once the virus has made contact with the skin, it invades the keratinocytes, which are the cells found in the outer layer of the skin. These infected cells then rapidly multiply, leading to the characteristic raised patches of skin that we recognize as warts.

Although warts are usually harmless, some people might seek treatment for cosmetic reasons or because the wart causes discomfort. Treatment options include topical solutions, cryotherapy, and surgical removal, although warts can sometimes resolve on their own without intervention.

Skin Growths

Skin growths are any continuous overproduction of cells that form a protrusion or lump on the skin. Warts, specifically, are a kind of skin growth caused by HPV. They typically have a rough surface and may appear as a single growth or in clusters. While skin growths can be benign, like warts, or malignant, in the case of skin cancer, they are generally the result of cells replicating in an abnormal manner.

Warts can be identified by their location on the body, appearance, and sometimes through the discomfort they may cause. It's important for individuals to monitor any skin growths for changes in size, color, or shape, as these can be indicators of more serious conditions. In the case of warts, while they are not cancerous, they are contagious and should be treated to prevent spreading to other areas of the body or to other people.

Over-the-counter treatments for warts include salicylic acid and freezing sprays. Understanding the nature of skin growths like warts can increase awareness of skin health and promote proactive treatment and care.

Viral Diseases

Viral diseases consist of conditions caused by viruses, which are infectious agents that replicate inside the cells of an organism. Viruses can affect various parts of the body and can lead to diseases ranging from mild to life-threatening. Warts, for instance, are an example of a mild viral disease caused by specific types of HPV.

Viruses enter the body through different portals, such as the respiratory system, bloodstream, or skin. Once inside, they hijack the cell's machinery to reproduce, which can disrupt normal cell function and trigger an immune response. The symptoms of a viral disease are often the result of this immune response.

Preventative measures against viral diseases include good hygiene practices, vaccination, and avoiding contact with infected individuals. Some viruses can be managed or cured with antiviral medications, while others, like the strains of HPV that cause warts, may have treatments that focus on alleviating symptoms rather than targeting the virus itself.