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Preparing for your appointment
By Mayo Clinic staffAlthough most warts don't require medical treatment, some people choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons or because their location makes them uncomfortable. If your warts don't respond to conservative treatments, you might be referred to a doctor who specializes in skin disorders (dermatologist).
What you can do
Your time with your doctor is limited, so preparing a list of questions can help you make the most of your time together. For warts, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:
- What made the warts develop?
- If I have them removed, will they come back?
- What types of treatments are available to remove the warts, and which do you recommend?
- What types of side effects can I expect?
- Are there any alternatives to the primary approach that you're suggesting?
- Are there any brochures or other printed material that I can take home with me? What websites do you recommend visiting?
What to expect from your doctor
Your doctor may also have some questions for you, such as:
- When did you first notice the warts?
- Have you ever had them in the past?
- Are you bothered by the warts, either for cosmetic reasons or for comfort?
- What treatments have you already used for your warts? What were the results?
References
- Habif TP. Clinical Dermatology: A Color Guide to Diagnosis and Therapy. 5th ed. Edinburgh, U.K.; New York, N.Y.: Mosby Elsevier; 2010. http://www.mdconsult.com/books/about.do?about=true&eid=4-u1.0-B978-0-7234-3541-9..X0001-6--TOP&isbn=978-0-7234-3541-9&uniqId=230100505-57. Accessed Feb. 16, 2012.
- Goldstein BG, et al. Cutaneous warts. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed Feb. 16, 2012.
- Ferri FF. Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2012: 5 Books in 1. Philadelphia, Pa.: Mosby Elsevier; 2012. http://www.mdconsult.com/books/about.do?about=true&eid=4-u1.0-B978-0-323-05611-3..C2009-0-38601-8--TOP&isbn=978-0-323-05611-3&uniqId=291436269-101. Accessed Feb. 16, 2012.
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