Viral Skin Infections

OVERVIEW

Viral skin conditions are caused by viral infections of the skin and may present as growths, bumps, or lesions that vary in appearance, location, and behavior. These conditions are common and may affect patients of all ages.

Some viral skin lesions are self-limited and resolve over time, while others may persist, spread, or recur. In certain cases, viral lesions may resemble other dermatologic conditions, making accurate diagnosis essential before treatment is considered.

COMMON VIRAL SKIN CONDITIONS

The most frequently evaluated viral skin conditions in adults include:

• Cold Sores (Herpes Simplex Virus)
  Recurrent viral infections that commonly affect the lips and surrounding skin and may reactivate during periods of stress, illness, or immune changes.

• Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
  A reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, typically presenting as a painful, blistering rash limited to one or adjacent dermatomes.

• Warts (Human Papillomavirus, HPV)
  Viral growths that may affect the hands, feet, face, or genital area and vary in appearance, persistence, and response to treatment.

• Molluscum Contagiosum
  A poxvirus infection causing small, smooth, dome-shaped lesions; while more common in children, it also affects adults.

• Viral Lesions on the Face and Sun-Exposed Skin
  Viral growths that may appear atypical in chronically sun-damaged skin and require careful evaluation to distinguish them from precancerous or malignant conditions.

Each condition differs in transmission, clinical behavior, and management approach, making accurate diagnosis essential before treatment is considered.

WHY MEDICAL EVALUATION MATTERS

Viral skin lesions may:

• Spread through direct contact or autoinoculation
• Persist for long periods of time
• Recur after treatment
• Mimic non-viral or sun-related skin conditions

Because some viral lesions can resemble precancerous or malignant growths, particularly on the face or sun-exposed skin, evaluation by a medical professional is important before any destructive or laser-based treatment.

TREATMENT CONSIDERATIONS

There is no single treatment appropriate for all viral skin conditions. Management depends on:

• Lesion type and location
• Number and size of lesions
• Patient age and immune status
• Symptoms and risk factors

In some cases, observation is appropriate. In others, medical or procedural treatment may be recommended. Treatment decisions are individualized and based on clinical findings.

CARE APPROACH

Our office provides comprehensive evaluation and management of viral skin conditions. Careful diagnosis guides appropriate treatment selection, with attention to patient safety, comfort, and long-term outcomes.

📞 Call (847) 518-9999 to schedule a consultation.

Medical Disclosure This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace a personalized medical evaluation. Treatment recommendations vary based on individual clinical findings. Outcomes may vary, and no specific medical result can be guaranteed.

Learn more about specific viral skin conditions:

• Cold Sores & Shingles
• Warts (Common, Plantar, and Genital)
• Molluscum Contagiosum
• Viral Lesions on the Face and Sun-Exposed Skin