Does TCA remove warts?

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is a treatment for genital and anal warts caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). It is a powerful chemical that kills warts by destroying the proteins in the cells. After repeated application, it will cause the warts to shrink and eventually disappear.

What percentage of TCA is needed for warts?

Treatment via chemical cautery with a solution of 60 to 90 percent trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is most effective when treating few small, moist lesions, although TCA also can be used for vaginal or anal lesions. A small amount should be applied and allowed to dry until a white frosting develops.

Can you use TCA on plantar warts?

(HealthDay)—Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is more effective than cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen for the treatment of plantar warts, according to a study published online April 4 in the Journal of Dermatology.

How long does it take warts to fall off after acid?

In general, you can expect to see results from treatment within 3 to 4 months. Even without treatment, more than half the cases of all types of skin warts are reported to disappear on their own within a year, and two-thirds of cases resolve within about 2 years.

How is TCA used to treat genital warts?

TCA Effective Treatment For Genital Warts. Research conducted at the Mayo Clinic confirmed that trichloracetic acid (TCA) for genital warts may be an effective treatment because it destroys the proteins in the cells.

How is trichloroacetic acid used in the treatment of warts?

Comparative study of topical 80% trichloroacetic acid with 35% trichloroacetic acid in the treatment of the common wart. This study showed that a different concentration of TCA solution was an effective form of treatment for common warts.

Which is better for HPV warts, surgery or TCA?

You and your doctor should consider the size, shape, location, and quantity of warts before settling on a treatment. You should also consider the cost of treatment. TCA, podophyllin resin, and imiquimod treatments are more expensive than cryotherapy, surgical removal, and laser treatments. However, TCA is less expensive than interferon treatment.

How often should I apply TCA to my genitals?

It will take weekly treatments of TCA for a number of weeks to get rid of genital warts. TCA is a caustic agent and must be applied sparingly to genital warts. A health professional applies TCA to genital warts once a week. The application of TCA usually causes several minutes of mild to moderate discomfort at the site.