Verruca Vulgaris

Description

• Verruca vulgaris are benign (non-cancerous) growths on the skin caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are rough, raised, and often have a cauliflower-like surface. They may appear anywhere but are most common on the hands, fingers, elbows, and knees. Sometimes they show tiny black dots inside (clotted capillaries, often called “wart seeds”).

When should I come in?

You should consider a dermatology visit if:

• The wart is painful, spreading, or multiplying.

• It interferes with daily activities (typing, writing, walking).

• It hasn’t improved with over-the-counter treatments after a few weeks.

• You have many warts, large warts, or rapidly growing lesions.

• You have a weakened immune system.

• You’re unsure if the growth is really a wart (to rule out skin cancer or other conditions).

• It’s cosmetically bothersome or bothers your confidence.

How are they treated? 

Treatment isn’t always required, but many people seek care for comfort, function, or cosmetic reasons. Options include:

• In-office treatments at INTEGRITY

  • Cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen) – most common, requires repeat sessions.

  • Electrocautery or surgical removal – burning or cutting out the wart.

• At-home treatments (sometimes recommended in combination)

  • Salicylic acid (OTC pads, gels, or solutions) used daily.

  • Duct tape occlusion – occasionally used to suffocate and irritate the wart into healing