Frostbite following use of a commercially available cryotherapy device for the removal of viral warts

Abstract

Warts are a common skin complaint in childhood. We describe 3 unusual cases in which inadvertent tissue injury was caused during the treatment of viral warts by a commercially available cryotherapy device. In each case there was a failure to follow the instructions provided correctly. If such devices are to remain available for public use we feel changes should be implemented to reduce the risk of such injuries occurring again in the future. Alternatively, cryotherapy as a treatment modality should remain in the realm of the trained health care professional.