Filiform warts are a distinctive type of wart that often appear on the face, eyelids, lips, or neck. They are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) and are easily recognised by their long, thread-like projections.
Although harmless, filiform warts can be irritating and cosmetically distressing because of their location. At London Wart Clinic, our private doctors frequently treat patients who want them removed quickly and safely.
What Are Filiform Warts?
Filiform warts are caused by certain HPV strains, most commonly HPV types 1, 2, 4, and 27. Like other warts, they form when the virus enters through a small cut or abrasion in the skin and triggers rapid cell growth.
They are characterised by:
- Thin, finger-like projections that extend from the skin surface.
- Rapid growth, sometimes appearing within days.
- Common sites: eyelids, lips, neck, and around the chin.
Because they grow outward, they can catch on clothing, cause irritation when shaving, and attract unwanted attention due to their appearance.
How to Recognise Filiform Warts
Filiform warts look different from common or flat warts:
| Feature | Filiform Warts | Common Warts | Flat Warts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shape | Long, narrow, thread-like | Raised, rough, cauliflower-like | Flat, smooth-topped |
| Location | Face (eyelids, lips, neck, chin) | Hands, knees, elbows | Face, arms, legs |
| Growth rate | Often fast-growing | Moderate | Slow |
| Symptoms | Cosmetic concern, irritation from shaving | Generally painless | Cosmetic concern, mild itching |
Are Filiform Warts Contagious?
Yes. Like all warts, filiform warts are caused by HPV and can spread through:
- Direct skin contact with an infected area.
- Autoinoculation – shaving or scratching the wart and transferring the virus to nearby skin.
- Shared personal items like towels or razors.
HPV is very common. In the UK, studies suggest that up to 1 in 10 people have warts at any one time, though filiform warts are less common than plantar or common warts.
Removal Options for Filiform Warts
Because filiform warts often appear on the face, safe and precise treatment is essential to avoid scarring.
Over-the-counter treatments:
- Salicylic acid products are rarely suitable for facial skin due to irritation risk.
- Home freezing kits are not recommended near the eyes or lips.
Professional treatments at London Wart Clinic:
| Treatment | How It Works | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cryotherapy | Liquid nitrogen freezes and destroys wart tissue. | Quick, effective, minimal downtime. | May cause temporary redness or blistering. |
| Cautery (electrosurgery) | Wart is burned off using heat under local anaesthetic. | Immediate removal, highly effective. | May leave a small scar. |
| Laser removal | Uses concentrated light to target wart tissue. | Precise, suitable for facial warts. | More expensive, may require local anaesthetic. |
| Surgical excision | Wart is cut out under anaesthetic. | Removes the lesion completely. | Reserved for resistant cases; leaves a wound. |
When to Seek Treatment
Filiform warts often cause embarrassment or irritation but are not dangerous. You should consider professional removal if:
- The wart is growing quickly or spreading.
- It is located on a sensitive area such as the eyelid or lip.
- It causes pain, irritation, or bleeding.
- You want cosmetic improvement.
At London Wart Clinic, our surgeons provide safe removal tailored to the wart’s location, ensuring minimal discomfort and scarring.