What Are Subungual and Periungual Warts?

Understanding Subungual and Periungual Warts

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Subungual and periungual warts are specific types of warts that occur around the nails. These warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can be particularly challenging to treat due to their location.

Subungual Warts

Subungual warts are found beneath the nail plate. They can cause discomfort and may lead to nail deformities if left untreated. The pressure from the nail can make these warts painful and difficult to manage. Treatment options often require careful consideration to avoid damage to the nail bed.

Periungual Warts

Periungual warts occur around the nail and are more common than subungual warts. They can spread to the surrounding skin and are often characterized by a rough, cauliflower-like appearance. These warts can be particularly stubborn and may require multiple treatment sessions for complete resolution.

Treatment Options

Intralesional immunotherapy has emerged as a promising treatment for periungual warts. This method involves injecting antigens directly into the wart to stimulate the body’s immune response against the virus. Studies have shown that intralesional immunotherapy using antigens such as the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine, Candida antigen, and purified protein derivative (PPD) can be effective. In one study, complete clearance of periungual warts was observed in 70% of patients treated with PPD, 80% with Candida antigen, and 74% with the MMR vaccine, with no significant adverse effects or recurrence reported1.

Another study compared the efficacy of MMR and PPD injections specifically for palmoplantar and periungual warts. The results indicated a higher complete resolution rate in the MMR group compared to the PPD group, although the difference was not statistically significant. The MMR group also experienced fewer adverse events, suggesting it may be a preferable option for some patients2.

Conclusion

Subungual and periungual warts present unique challenges due to their location and potential for causing discomfort and nail deformities. Intralesional immunotherapy has shown promise as an effective treatment, with studies indicating high clearance rates and minimal adverse effects. This approach offers a viable option for patients struggling with these persistent warts.

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

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