hpv virus; bumps on palm of hand

[bin]

My question has two parts.
1.  I would like to know how long the hpv (wart) virus can survive on dry surfaces, i.e. countertops, clothing, books, etc.

2.  I also have a few, very tiny clear looking bumps/bubbles on the palm of my left hand.  I can lift the skin with a sterilized needle and the skin comes up as if it just peels right off.  Sometimes they reappear, sometimes they do not.  I am curious as to what you think this may be.  I do wear latex gloves a lot, I also wash my hands very often.  Could it be that I do not rinse my hands well enough or the latex gloves?  

Your professional opinion concerning both of my questions is greatly appreciated.  Thank you for the service you are providing.

Sincerely,
BG

[Bumpy49]

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[Sal5865]

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[stalz]

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[bin]

I have one more question concerning the bumps on the palm of my hand.  IF you remember, I indicated that I would take a sterilized needle and lift the  bumps--they  would just peel off like dead skin or something.  Well, I have done this many times; therefore, the skin in one particular area is now rather hard.  Can this occur from peeling the skin too much?  How should I attempt to rid myself of the hard, tough skin in that area of my palm. (it is a relatively small area that I just "peeled" too much)

Thank you again for providing answers to my questions.
Sincerely,
bin

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

You're welcome.

I don't know how long HPV can survive.  Most warts behave in a noncontagious fashion.  By that I mean that when I see people with warts (many times every day), rarely do other people around them have warts.  Also, warts don't spread where skin touches skin--for instance, if warts were contagious, hand warts would spread all over the body just from taking aa shower.  They don't.

So I wouldn't worry about countertops Or showers, or locker rooms, or pools).

As to the little bumps on the palms, those are most likely blisters of mild eczema.  I wouldn't bother them or with them unless they become itchy or obtrusive, in which case a doctor can prescribe cream for symptomatic relief.  Otherwise, I'd ignore 'em.

Take care.

Dr. Rockoff