Treatable Lesions
Both Verruca-Freeze® and Verruca-Freeze® H are FDA-cleared to treat the following nine types of skin lesions, representing the core conditions effectively managed with our cryosurgical systems. Click the dropdown arrow next to a lesion type to learn more about that specific condition.
Common Warts
Common warts (Verruca vulgaris) are small, rough skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They typically appear on the hands, fingers, around the nails, or knees and are spread through direct contact or shared surfaces. While generally harmless, common warts can be bothersome, unsightly, and occasionally painful.
Flat Warts
Flat warts (Verruca plana) are small, smooth, and slightly raised lesions that often appear in clusters. They are usually flesh-colored or slightly darker and commonly develop on the face, neck, hands, or legs. Caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), flat warts are more common in children, teens, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Though typically painless, they can spread easily through shaving, scratching, or skin-to-skin contact.
Plantar Warts
Plantar warts (Verruca plantaris or Verruca pedis) are hard, thick growths that develop on pressure points of the feet, such as soles, often causing discomfort or pain when walking or standing. Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), they typically appear as small, rough lesions with multiple black specks, or seeds, in the center and may be surrounded by thickened skin.
Genital Warts
Genital warts (Condyloma acuminatum) are soft, flesh-colored growths that appear on or around the genital and anal areas. Caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), they can vary in size and shape, often forming in clusters. While usually painless, genital warts can cause discomfort, itching, and emotional distress. They are highly contagious and spread through sexual contact, even when no visible warts are present.
Skin Tags
Skin tags (Acrochordons) are small, soft, flesh-colored growths that often form in skin folds such as the neck, underarms, upper chest, eyelids, and groin. Most skin tags are between 1–5 mm in diameter, but some can grow as large as a few centimeters. Though harmless, they can become irritated from rubbing against clothing and are commonly removed for cosmetic or comfort reasons.
Age Spots
Age spots (Lentigos), also known as sun or liver spots, are flat, brown or black spots on the skin caused by an increase in pigment-producing cells. They often develop in sun-exposed areas such as the face, hands, shoulders, and chest, and are more common with aging or frequent UV exposure. Unlike freckles, age spots do not fade with reduced sun exposure and may gradually increase in number over time. While harmless, many people seek treatment for cosmetic reasons.
Actinic Keratoses
Actinic keratoses are precancerous, sun-induced lesions appearing as rough, scaly patches on sun-exposed skin. They vary in color from pink to brown and may feel dry or crusty. Actinic keratoses commonly range between 2–6 mm is diameter and are often found on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, lips, neck, scalp, chest, backs of hands, or forearms.
Seborrheic Keratoses
Seborrheic keratoses, also known as senile warts, are common, benign skin growths that typically develop with age. Seborrheic keratoses are characterized by keratin on the surface, appearing as a brown, black, or tan lesion with a waxy, wart-like, or “stuck-on” appearance. These growths often develop gradually in areas such as the chest, back, face, or scalp.
Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV), resulting in firm, flesh-colored, dome-shaped bumps with a central dimple. These lesions typically range between 1–5mm in diameter and can appear anywhere on the body. Molluscum contagiosum lesions are most frequently seen in children, though they can also affect adults, especially through skin-to-skin contact or shared personal items. While typically painless, the bumps can become red, itchy, or inflamed and may spread easily if scratched.
Verruca-Freeze® Only
Verruca-Freeze® stands apart with FDA clearance to treat a broader range of lesions. This section highlights the additional conditions exclusively approved for treatment with our Verruca-Freeze® product, offering providers expanded versatility in cryosurgical care.
Filiform Warts
Filiform warts (Verruca filiformis), also known as digitate or facial warts, are long, narrow growths that commonly appear on the face, especially around the eyes, nose, and mouth. Caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), these warts often grow quickly and may resemble tiny brushes or threads. While typically painless, their location and appearance can make them particularly bothersome or cosmetically concerning.
Mosaic Warts
Mosaic warts, also known as recalcitrant plantar warts, are clusters of smaller plantar warts that form a larger, plaque-like lesion, typically on the soles of the feet. Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), they can be more stubborn and harder to treat than single warts due to their depth and spread. Mosaic warts may cause discomfort or pain when walking or standing and can interfere with daily activities. They are often picked up in communal areas like gyms, locker rooms, and swimming pools.
Angiomas
Angiomas are benign clusters of small blood vessels that form red to purple spots on the skin and can appear anywhere on the body. Common types include cherry angiomas (pictured), spider angiomas, and angiokeratomas. While usually harmless, they can be removed for cosmetic reasons.
Chondrodermatitis
Chondrodermatitis nodularis helicis (CNH) is a painful, inflammatory condition that affects the cartilage of the outer ear, usually presenting as a small, tender nodule on the rim or helix. It commonly develops due to prolonged pressure, such as sleeping on one side, and is more frequent in older adults. The lesion may appear red, scaly, or ulcerated and is often sensitive to touch. While benign, Chondrodermatitis can cause significant discomfort and may persist without treatment.
Dermatofibromas
Dermatofibromas, also known as cutaneous fibrous histiocytomas, are firm, raised nodules often found on the legs or arms. Usually brown or red-purple, they may itch and feel like hard lumps under the skin. While Dermatofibromas can occur anywhere, they seem to favor exposed areas and are thought to result from minor skin trauma like insect bites or splinters.
Epithelial Nevus
Epithelial nevus, also known as epidermal nevus, are congenital skin lesions caused by overgrowths of keratinocytes (horny skin cells). They may be deeply or slightly pigmented, follow a linear or dermatomal pattern, and vary in thickness, sometimes involving the mucous membranes or eyes. This abnormality arises from a defect in the ectoderm, which is the outer layer of the embryo that gives rise to epidermis and neural tissue.
Granuloma Annulare
Granuloma annulare are ring-shaped lesions that appear smooth, firm, and often skin-colored or reddish. While granuloma annulare can develop on any part of the skin, they most commonly appear on the hands, feet, elbows, or knees. These lesions usually do not peel or itch and, for that reason, can often go unnoticed.
Keratoacanthomas
Keratoacanthomas are rapidly growing, dome-shaped nodules with a central keratin-filled crater. These lesions typically develops on sun-exposed areas such as the face, arms, or hands, and are most common in older adults. While keratoacanthomas may sometimes regress on their own, they are often treated due to their aggressive appearance and potential for confusion with a cancerous squamous cell carcinoma.
Lentigo Maligna
Lentigo maligna is a slow-growing form of melanoma in situ that typically appears as a flat, irregularly shaped, and unevenly pigmented patch on sun-exposed areas, such as the face, neck, or arms. It is most common in older adults with a history of chronic sun exposure. While it remains confined to the top layer of skin in its early stages, lentigo maligna can progress to invasive melanoma if left untreated. Early detection and treatment are critical for preventing progression.
Leukoplakia
Leukoplakia is a condition characterized by thickened, white patches that form on the mucous membranes of the mouth, tongue, or gums. These patches cannot be scraped off and are often caused by chronic irritation, such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, or rough dental surfaces. While usually benign, some cases of leukoplakia may show precancerous changes, making early evaluation and treatment important. The lesions are typically painless but may become sensitive or develop an irregular surface.
Porokeratosis Plantaris
Porokeratosis plantaris, also known as punctate porokeratosis or porokeratosis of the soles, is a rare skin condition characterized by small, thickened, and often painful lesions on the soles of the feet. These lesions appear as tiny pits or keratotic plugs and may become irritated or tender with pressure, especially when walking or standing. The exact cause is unclear, but genetic factors and chronic friction may play a role. While benign, porokeratosis plantaris can be persistent and uncomfortable.
Pyogenic Granulomas
Pyogenic granulomas are benign, rapidly growing skin or mucosal lesions that appear as a small, red, and often bleeding bump. They commonly develop after minor trauma or irritation and are frequently seen on the hands, face, or inside the mouth. Despite its name, it is neither infectious nor filled with pus—instead, it consists of overgrown blood vessels and tissue. Pyogenic granulomas can be prone to bleeding with minimal contact and may become bothersome or cosmetically concerning.
Small Keloids
Small keloids are raised, thickened areas of scar tissue that form at the site of skin injury, such as cuts, piercings, surgery, or acne. Unlike normal scars, keloids grow beyond the original wound boundary and may continue to enlarge over time. They are typically firm, smooth, and may be pink, red, or darker than the surrounding skin. While not harmful, small keloids can cause itching, tenderness, or cosmetic concerns.
Veterinary Lesions
Verruca-Freeze® and Verruca-Freeze® H are also used in veterinary practices to treat a range of common skin lesions in animals. This section outlines the types of conditions effectively managed with our cryosurgical products in a veterinary setting.
Papillomas
Canine papillomas are benign, wart-like growths caused by the canine papillomavirus, most commonly seen in young dogs or those with weakened immune systems. These lesions typically appear in the mouth, on the lips, or around the eyes and paws, often resembling small, cauliflower-like bumps. While usually painless and self-limiting, they can become irritated, bleed, or interfere with eating or grooming. Canine papillomas are contagious to other dogs through direct contact or shared items.
Sebaceous Adenomas
Sebaceous adenomas are common, benign tumors that arise from the sebaceous (oil) glands in a dog’s skin. They typically appear as small, raised, wart-like growths that may be pink, white, or flesh-colored, and are most often found on the head, neck, or back of older dogs. While usually harmless and not painful, these growths can become irritated, bleed, or infected if scratched or traumatized. Though not contagious or cancerous, many pet owners choose to remove them for comfort or cosmetic reasons.
Skin Tags
Skin tags are small, soft, benign growths that protrude from the skin, often appearing on areas with friction such as the neck, chest, legs, or armpits. These harmless growths are typically flesh-colored and may hang by a narrow stalk. Skin tags are common in older dogs and usually cause no pain or health risk, though they can become irritated by collars, grooming, or scratching. While not medically necessary to remove, some pet owners choose treatment for comfort or cosmetic reasons.
Distichiae
Distichiasis is an abnormal condition where extra eyelashes, known as distichiae, grow from the edge of the eyelid, typically emerging from the meibomian glands. These misplaced lashes can rub against the surface of the eye, causing irritation, excessive tearing, squinting, inflammation, or even corneal ulcers in severe cases. Distichiae are more common in certain breeds and may affect one or both eyes. While some dogs show no symptoms, others require treatment to prevent discomfort and eye damage.
Histiocytomas
Histiocytomas are benign, rapidly growing skin tumors that typically appear as small, raised, round lumps on a dog’s skin. They are most commonly seen in younger dogs, often on the head, ears, or limbs. These tumors are generally pink or red and can be firm or soft to the touch. While histiocytomas are non-cancerous and tend to resolve on their own over time, they can become irritated or cause discomfort if they grow quickly or are traumatized. Treatment is often considered if the lesion causes issues or does not resolve naturally.
Sarcoids
Sarcoids are the most common type of skin tumor in horses, though they can also affect other animals, including dogs. These growths are typically firm, wart-like lesions that may appear on the skin or mucous membranes, and can range in size and appearance. Sarcoids are thought to be caused by a virus (bovine papillomavirus), and while they are generally non-cancerous, they can grow aggressively, spread locally, or become ulcerated. Sarcoids may be found on the head, ears, legs, or torso and can be problematic if they cause irritation or interfere with movement.
Follicular Cysts
Follicular cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop within a dog’s hair follicles, often appearing as small, raised lumps beneath the skin. These cysts are typically harmless and can vary in size, but they may become inflamed, infected, or rupture, causing discomfort. Follicular cysts are most commonly found on the body, legs, or head, and are often seen in certain breeds or in dogs with oily skin. While many cysts resolve on their own, some require treatment to prevent infection or alleviate discomfort.
Granulomas
Granulomas are localized areas of inflammation that result from chronic irritation, infection, or immune system responses. These firm, raised lumps typically develop on the skin or beneath the skin and can be caused by a variety of factors, including bacterial or fungal infections, foreign bodies, or allergies. Granulomas may appear red, swollen, and sometimes ulcerated, and they can be painful or cause discomfort. Though benign, they can grow in size or become infected, requiring treatment for proper resolution.
Eye Tumors
Eye tumors are abnormal growths that can develop on or around a dog’s eyes, affecting the eyelids, conjunctiva, or deeper structures within the eye itself. These tumors can be either benign or malignant and may cause symptoms such as swelling, redness, discharge, or changes in the appearance of the eye. Some eye tumors can interfere with vision or cause discomfort, while others may not show noticeable symptoms until they grow or spread. Early detection and treatment are essential for preserving eye health and preventing complications.
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Verruca-Freeze® and Verruca-Freeze® H are FDA-approved Class II Medical Devices authorized for use by licensed medical and veterinary professionals only. An active medical or veterinary license is required for purchase and will be verified by CryoSurgery for authenticity and validity. Sale or other distribution of any Verruca-Freeze® product to patients is strictly prohibited.
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