Warts are caused by specific strains of the human papilloma virus (HPV).
Understanding HPV and Warts
Warts are a common skin condition caused by a viral infection. The culprit behind most warts is the human papilloma virus (HPV). However, not all HPV strains cause warts. There are many different types of HPV, and only certain ones lead to the development of these skin growths.
- Different HPV Strains: Various strains of HPV exist, and each tends to cause different types of warts on various body parts.
- Keratin Overproduction: HPV infects the top layer of the skin, the epidermis. This infection triggers an overproduction of keratin, a hard protein that makes up skin, hair, and nails. The excess keratin leads to the rough, hard texture characteristic of warts.
In summary, warts arise from an HPV infection that induces excessive keratin production in the skin.
