Warts are growths on
the skin caused by viruses (germs that can only be seen with a special microscope). They vary in size and appearance. Warts are most often found on the hands and feet but can be anywhere on the skin. They are spread from one person to the next by touching. Warts are more common in children and young adults but may appear at any age. Sometimes they go away in weeks or months with no treatment but others last for years. Your child's wart can be treated with
liquid nitrogen. Liquid nitrogen freezes and destroys both the wart and a small area of normal skin around the wart.
When to Call the DoctorThe risk of infection after treatment is small. Call the doctor if:
Remember, one treatment with liquid nitrogen may not remove the wart completely. The skin doctor (dermatologist) will decide if it needs to be treated again. Warts: Liquid Nitrogen Treatment (PDF) HH-I-156 4/92 Revised 10/17 Copyright 1992, Nationwide Children’s Hospital You Might Also Be Interested InHow do you treat skin after liquid nitrogen treatment?Gently clean the area in the shower or bath with warm water and mild soap, then pat dry. Apply Vaseline or Aquaphor to the area 1-2x daily. You do not have to keep the area covered with a Band-Aid, but certainly can if you prefer.
How long does it take for a liquid nitrogen burn to heal?In most cases a blister will actually form within 3-6 hours. Often there is a small amount of bleeding into the blister which will turn it dark purple of black. This is expected and should not be cause for concern. ► The blister usually flattens in 2-3 days and sloughs off in 2-4 weeks.
How long do liquid nitrogen scars last?The blister may last for a period of 1 to 2 weeks, and then slowly heal with crusting. The area that was frozen may result in either an area of lighter or darker skin. While unusual, this discoloration may occur and persist indefinitely.
How can I speed up healing of liquid nitrogen?Wounds heal best when kept covered and moist. Avoid crusting or scabbing. 1. If the skin is opened, clean the area twice a day with clean water (clean tap water or normal saline) and apply an ointment (Vaseline™petrolatum or Aquaphor®).
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