Verruca vulgaris, commonly known as a common wart, is a benign skin growth caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), primarily types 2 and 4 (though other types can also be involved). It often appears on the hands, fingers, elbows, and knees as a rough, raised, and sometimes cauliflower-like lesion.



A middle-aged man with multiple hyperpigmented, verrucous, and raised skin lesions predominantly on the face, including the forehead, cheeks, and periorbital area visited the clinic for treatment. These lesions appear cauliflower-shaped and warty.
Diagnosis:
Verruca Vulgaris (Common Warts)–
Multiple cauliflower-like or hyperkeratotic lesions having a rough, firm, irregular surface.
Causes & Transmission
- Direct skin contact with HPV (e.g., from infected surfaces or another person).
- Small cuts or abrasions increase susceptibility.
- Common in children, immunocompromised individuals, and those frequently handling wet surfaces (e.g., swimmers).
Symptoms
- Firm, rough, raised lesion with a rough surface.
- May have black dots (thrombosed capillaries).
- Usually painless but can be tender if on pressure areas.
Clinical Examination
Appearance:
- Small, rough, firm papule with an irregular surface.
- May have a cauliflower-like or hyperkeratotic texture.
- Can be single or multiple.
- Possible black dots (thrombosed capillaries) on the surface.
Location & Distribution:
- Often found on the eyelids, lips, forehead, cheeks or around finger nails.
- Can be isolated or appear in clusters.
Palpation:
- Surface feels rough, unlike smooth skin lesions (e.g., molluscum contagiosum).
- Non-tender in most cases, unless irritated.
Diagnostic Confirmation (if needed)
Dermatoscopy: Shows a papillomatous surface with red or black dots (capillary loops).
Scraping Test: Gently scraping reveals pinpoint bleeding (confirming capillary involvement).
Biopsy: Histopathology shows hyperkeratosis, papillomatosis, and koilocytes (HPV-infected keratinocytes).
Differential Diagnosis
- Seborrheic keratosis – More waxy and stuck-on appearance.
- Molluscum contagiosum – Dome-shaped with central umbilication.
- Actinic keratosis – More scaly and linked to sun exposure.
- Basal cell carcinoma (rare in young patients) – Pearly edges, slow-growing.
Conventional Treatment:
- Cryotherapy (freezing)
- Curettage (scraping)
- Electrosurgery
- Laser ablation
- Often done for cosmetic reasons or irritation
Homeopathic Perspective:
Individualized treatment based on totality of symptoms.
Focus on constitutional remedy to prevent recurrence.
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