Follow-Up Wart Treatment in a 13-Year-Old Male – Case Report from Village Dermatology in Katy & Houston, Texas
by: Caroline Vaughn
At Village Dermatology, we often treat verruca vulgaris (common warts) in both children and adults. These small, rough growths are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can be stubborn, requiring multiple treatments to fully resolve. This case highlights the importance of follow-up care for persistent or recurring warts.
Patient Background
A 13-year-old male returned for a follow-up visit after his initial evaluation on June 26, 2025 for verruca vulgaris affecting the left lateral dorsal foot and left proximal ulnar dorsal small finger. At his first visit, the lesions were treated with liquid nitrogen cryotherapy.
The patient reported that his finger wart had resolved completely, but a new wart developed on the bottom of his left big toe.
Clinical Examination
A focused skin exam of the hands and feet revealed:
Resolved lesion on the left small finger.
Persistent wart on the left lateral dorsal foot.
New wart on the left medial plantar surface of the great toe.
The patient appeared healthy, alert, and in no distress.
Treatment Plan
Given the persistence and new lesion, we proceeded with:
Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen for two lesions – one on the dorsal foot and one on the plantar surface of the big toe.
Reviewed risks including crusting, blistering, pigment changes, scarring, recurrence, and incomplete removal.
Reinforced that verruca vulgaris can spread through direct contact and that proper hygiene is important to prevent recurrence.
We also discussed alternative treatments such as topical salicylic acid, retinoids, and immune-modulating creams like Aldara.
Follow-Up
The patient will return in one month to assess healing and determine if additional treatments are needed.
Key Takeaway for Patients in Katy & Houston, Texas
Warts are common in children and teens, but they can be persistent. Cryotherapy is an effective treatment, but follow-up care is often needed to ensure complete removal and to address new lesions if they appear. At Village Dermatology, we tailor wart treatment plans to each patient’s needs for the best possible outcome.
If you have warts that keep coming back, schedule a visit with our dermatology team in Katy or Houston, Texas for expert treatment.
