How Many Types of Warts Are There?

Warts are skin growths caused by HPV or human papillomaviruses. Over 100 different HPV infections are known to researchers and these viruses cause many diseases from benign warts to life-threatening cancers, according to the Mayo Clinic. There are basically 5 different types of warts. These warts are very common and affect millions of people.

Plantar Warts

• Plantar warts appear on the soles of the feet. It is usually adults who get plantar warts. In some cases these warts are painful.

Common Warts

• Children are more prone to getting common warts. These are rough, hard bumps that appear on the hands. Sometimes common warts are painful.

Flat Warts

• Flat warts are growths on the face, neck, wrist, hands, elbows and knees. Mostly children and young adults get flat warts. These warts are smooth, but they are also slightly raised and darker than a person's skin coloring.

Genital Warts

• Genital warts are an STD or sexually transmitted disease. The warts appear on or around the genital and anal areas. Both men and women are affected.

Upper Respiratory Warts

• This is a less commonly known type of wart that develops inside the body. The mouth, nose and throat are the sites of these warts.