Human papillomavirus is spread by skin-to-skin contact. The virus has more than 100 different strains. Many cause warts, which are noncancerous growths. Some strains cause cell changes that can lead to certain kinds of cancer.
Common Warts
Common warts grow mostly on the hands and fingers in areas where the skin has been broken and the infection can enter the body. These warts often have black dots, which are actually blood vessels.
Plantar Warts
Plantar warts grow on the soles of the feet. They are usually flat from the pressure of walking, and they can have black dots similar to common warts.
Flat Warts
Flat warts are smaller than common or foot warts. They usually grow in clusters and, in adults, may be tied to shaving irritation.
Genital Warts
Genital warts can appear on the penis, vulva, groin or thighs, or in the anus or vagina. They are flesh-colored, may appear alone or in clusters and often resemble cauliflower; they are usually painless.
Cancers
Some strains of HPV can cause changes in cervical cells that eventually can become cervical cancer if untreated. Less commonly, HPV can cause vulval, vaginal, anal or penile cancers.
Vaccine
A vaccine is available to protect against four strains of HPV: two that cause genital warts and two that cause cervical cancer.
Tags: black dots, cervical cancer, have black, have black dots, Some strains