Publication:

Disseminated verruca vulgaris in an immunocompetent individual: an exception to the rule

Verruca or viral warts affect nearly 10% of the global population and are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, with more than 200 subtypes recognized to date. These lesions commonly involve the skin and mucous membranes and are transmitted through direct or indirect contact. Verruca plana, also known as flat warts, are typically smooth, flat-topped, reddish-brown or skin-coloured papules that often appear on the face, neck, and dorsal aspects of the hands. They are more frequent in children and young adults. While in most cases, verruca plana are self-limiting, disseminated or extensive presentations are uncommon and may indicate an underlying immune defect. Such widespread involvement warrants evaluation for immunosuppression due to conditions such as HIV infection, prolonged corticosteroid therapy, or other immunodeficiency disorders. Here, we present a case of disseminated verruca plana and outline the systematic clinical and laboratory approach undertaken to rule out any underlying immunocompromised state.