Topical garlic treatment for verruca plana triggers Koebner phenomenon: A case report

Abstract

Background Verruca plana is a benign proliferation of the skin caused by human papilloma virus (HPV) infection. Fresh garlic can serve as an alternative therapy, and it has shown considerable effectiveness as a topical treatment for verruca plana. However, topical garlic treatment for verruca plana triggered Koebner phenomenon (KP), which has not been previously reported. Aim The aim of our report is to explore the possible causes of this adverse reaction. Method We here describe a 20‐year‐old female patient who developed a beaded rash after garlic treatment for facial wart plana, known as autoinoculation or KP. Results Garlic may have caused damage to the surrounding normal skin through primary irritation or allergic reactions. Then, the HPV virus on the primary verruca plana took the opportunity to spread to the surrounding skin injured by garlic stimulation, triggering the KP. Conclusion When using garlic to treat verruca plana, the operator needs to precisely apply the mashed garlic to the warts, and this treatment is strictly prohibited for patients who are allergic to garlic. Avoid such adverse reactions.

Management of Oral Squamous Papilloma Using Annona squamosa (Custard Apple) Leaves: A Novel Case

“…Studies have found that garlic (Allium sativum), which is frequently used in traditional and alternative medicine, has potent antiviral effects. Many different forms of warts, including verruca plana, are treated by pounding garlic into a paste and applying it topically; however, an inappropriate application might have unfavourable effects like the Koebner phenomenon [20].…”