Pediatric Wart Removal Case: Treating Verruca Vulgaris in a 12-Year-Old Patient
At Village Dermatology, we commonly treat viral warts (verruca vulgaris) in children and adolescents. Warts are benign but often persistent skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and may spread with contact or minor skin trauma. This case highlights effective in-office treatment and at-home management for pediatric warts in Katy and Houston, Texas.
Patient Presentation
A 12-year-old female presented as a new patient for evaluation of a flat wart on the right knee that had been present for several months. The lesion was first noticed by her mother during a field hockey tournament and persisted despite observation. The patient was referred by her pediatrician for dermatologic evaluation and possible removal.
Clinical Examination
A focused examination of the right lower extremity was performed using dermoscopy. The patient appeared well-developed, well-nourished, and in no acute distress.
On exam, there were two pink, cauliflower-like papules consistent with verruca vulgaris located on:
Right knee
Right proximal pretibial region
Right medial proximal pretibial region
Assessment
Treatment Plan
After reviewing the diagnosis, etiology, and treatment options with the patient and her mother, liquid nitrogen cryotherapy was recommended and performed during the visit.
Cryotherapy Details:
2 lesions treated
2 freeze–thaw cycles per lesion
Locations: right knee and right medial proximal pretibial region
Informed consent was obtained, including discussion of possible side effects such as blistering, scabbing, pigmentary changes, scarring, recurrence, incomplete removal, and infection.
At-Home Wart Care & Counseling
The patient and her mother were counseled extensively on wart management and prevention:
Treatment Options
Cryotherapy
Salicylic acid preparations
Retinoids
Aldara® (imiquimod), when appropriate
Home Care Instructions
Apply over-the-counter maximum strength salicylic acid bandages nightly for two weeks between monthly visits
This helps reduce wart size and may decrease the need for repeated in-office treatments
Education & Expectations
Warts are caused by a viral infection
They can spread through direct skin contact
With consistent treatment, most warts resolve successfully
Patients were advised to contact the office if:
Warts spread
Lesions recur
There is no improvement with treatment
Follow-Up
Return visit scheduled in 4 weeks for reassessment and possible repeat treatment
Expert Pediatric Wart Treatment in Katy & Houston
This case demonstrates the importance of early treatment and patient education when managing pediatric warts. At Village Dermatology, we offer safe, effective wart removal for children and teens using evidence-based therapies in a comfortable, family-friendly setting.
If your child has persistent warts or other skin concerns, our dermatology team is here to help.
