Published: | Updated:

WHAT IS EPIDERMODYSPLASIA VERRUCIFORMIS?

Epidermodysplasia verruciformis (EV) is a rare, inherited skin disorder that causes wart-like eruptions.

These can be reddish-brown to violet and may have scaly surfaces or irregular borders.

They most commonly occur on areas exposed to the sun, such as the hands, feet, face and ear lobes. 

EV is thought to be caused by sufferers' having an impaired immune system, making them more vulnerable to HPV and wart-causing viruses. 

Some 10 per cent of sufferers come from marriages with blood relatives. 

In up to 60 per cent of cases, EV lesions transform into skin cancer if exposed to UV light.

There is no cure. Lesions can be removed as they appear. 

EV's prevalence is unknown, however, reports state just four cases have been diagnosed worldwide.  

Source: DermNet New Zealand  

Advertisement

Read articles that feature this panel

Bangladesh's 'tree man' returns for MORE surgery after rare condition that turns his hands into 'bark' came back when he skipped hospital...

Abul Bajandar, 28, has had 25 operations at a Dhaka hospital to remove the painful warts on his hands which makes them resemble trees, but...

Never-ending agony of the 'Tree Man': Father's excruciating bark-like warts have REGROWN despite him having 16 operations to remove the 11lb...

Abul Bajandar, 27, from Bangladesh, suffers from epidermodysplasia verruciformis and was overjoyed when doctors treated the condition,...

Father, 44, with 'tree man syndrome' says he can 'finally have a normal life' after four surgeries to remove the painful bark-like growths...

Mahmoud Taluli, 44, of Gaza, suffers from epidermodysplasia verruciformis. This is thought to suppress the immune system, leaving it unable...

Most watched News videos