Vulgar
Conditions
By
Dr.
Warren Kleinberg, M.D.,M.P.H.
The Latin word for common is vulgarus. A
number of conditions and diseases have names indicating that they are
“ordinary” and are found frequently, such as verrucus vulgarus (Common
warts), ichthyosis vulgarus (common, dry scaly skin), and acne vulgarus
(pimples).
Warts are caused by viruses (human
papilloma virus). There are many types of papilloma viruses, each having
a tendency to cause warts on different parts of the body. Warts tend to
last a few months to a few years on the skin with some individuals seeming
to be more susceptible than others to warts on the skin.
Genital warts are caused by specific strains of the
virus and last many years. They have been implicated as the cause of
cervical cancer in women. An exciting new vaccine will be available soon
to protect against cancer causing strains of the virus and has been shown
to be very effective in initial studies.
Treatment of warts varies from a variety of home and
over-the-counter remedies to burning, freezing, and laser treatments. The
most common and successful treatments involve slowly dissolving and
softening the skin over the wart and require patience with daily
treatments lasting one to two months.
Ichthyosis vulgarus literally means common fish
skin. In some persons, a hereditary tendency to have scale-like cracks
when the skin, especially on the legs, is very dry, particularly in the
cold months. The skin has been compared to “alligator hide,” can be thick
and leathery, often has an ashen appearance, and itches because of the
dryness. The severity varies from person to person. Short of moving to a
warmer, more humid climate, the frequent use of heavy moisturizers and
creams can be helpful. Oiling the skin after baths and using an alpha-hydroxy
lotion regularly can help control the appearance.
Acne vulgarus (pimples, zits, etc.) is common in
newborn babies, teenagers, and young adults. Some forms persist later
into life in certain individuals. It is a major medical as well as
cosmetic problem in many teenagers and may leave scars or pigmented spots
on the face and back. There are many newer, effective treatments to
reduce and control acne. Newborn acne usually clears up in a month or two
and requires no treatment unless complicated by other conditions. Teenage
acne can be a problem for years. Both newborn and teenage acne is
associated with the hormone changes taking place in the body; the
newborn’s hormones are from the pregnancy and are eliminated over a few
weeks while a teen’s are increasing over many years.
The three common conditions described above account
for millions of dollars in cost for remedies from drug stores, health-food
stores, magazine adds, TV adds and sales, and internet sales. Speak with
your doctor about what is effective.
Warren Kleinberg, M.D.,M.P.H.
Academy of Medicine of Toledo and Lucas County
