What could be the cause for a painless growth on the knee?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 56-year-old male. There is a painless black growth on the left knee, and that has been there for around two years now. My doctor advised me to use Duofilm (Lactic acid and Salicylic acid collodion) topical lotion in a recent visit. This reduced the size of the growth a little bit. However, after stopping the lotion for 15 days, it grew back to its original size again. But, it did not become bigger than before. I have attached the pictures for your reference. Could you please advise as to what this could be? Also, what is the treatment needed for this?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The growth is a viral wart. It is a form of superficial viral growth on the skin. Yes, it usually increases in size if left untreated and can spread to other body parts by direct contact. They are best dealth with radiocautery, which is a simple office based surgery done with a cautery machine. It is a five minute superficial procedure, which would be performed by your dermatologist. Only local anesthesia is required. Do not touch the wart repeatedly as they may spread to other body parts. The lotion mentioned by you may also be used for a long time, but it is not as efficacious as the surgical option.

I hope it helps.

Thank you.