Verrucous Carcinoma: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Shruti Surushe , Oncologists

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Verrucous carcinoma is a type of squamous cell carcinoma that presents as a slow-growing, exophytic tumor. It is typically well-differentiated and has a verrucous (wart-like) surface. The lesions can appear in various parts of the body, including the oral cavity, larynx, esophagus, and genital regions.

What are the Symptoms of Verrucous Carcinoma?

The symptoms of verrucous carcinoma vary depending on its location but generally include:

Oral Verrucous Carcinoma: Thickened white patches, non-healing ulcers, and a rough, wart-like surface. Patients may experience pain, difficulty swallowing, or changes in voice if the lesion is located in the oral cavity or larynx.
Cutaneous Verrucous Carcinoma: Wart-like lesions that may bleed or produce a foul-smelling discharge.
Genital Verrucous Carcinoma: Lesions in the genital area that may be misdiagnosed as warts or other benign conditions.

What are the Common Causes of Verrucous Carcinoma?

The exact causes of verrucous carcinoma are not well understood, but several risk factors have been identified:

Tobacco Use: Both smoking and smokeless tobacco have been strongly associated with the development of verrucous carcinoma, particularly in the oral cavity.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Infection with certain strains of HPV, especially HPV-6 and HPV-11, has been linked to verrucous carcinoma, particularly in the genital and oral regions.
Chronic Irritation: Prolonged exposure to irritants, such as poorly fitting dentures, can increase the risk of developing oral verrucous carcinoma.
Previous Radiation Therapy: Individuals who have undergone radiation therapy may have an increased risk of developing verrucous carcinoma in the irradiated area.

When to See a Doctor for Verrucous Carcinoma?

An oncologist should assess any persistent wart-like growth, mouth sore, ulcer, or lesion that does not heal. Early treatment can prevent deeper tissue invasion and improve cure rates. People who use tobacco or have long-standing suspicious lesions should seek prompt evaluation.

You should see a doctor if you have:

Growth lasting more than a few weeks
Painful mouth patch or ulcer
Trouble swallowing or speaking

Get medical help immediately if:

Rapidly enlarging lesion
Bleeding growth or severe pain
Breathing or swallowing difficulty

These could be signs of a serious complication like Verrucous Carcinoma, which needs urgent care.

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How Is Verrucous Carcinoma Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of verrucous carcinoma typically involves a combination of clinical examination, imaging studies, and histopathological analysis.

Clinical Examination

A thorough clinical examination is essential to identify the characteristic features of verrucous carcinoma, such as its exophytic, wart-like appearance and its tendency to spread superficially.

Imaging Studies

Imaging techniques, such as MRI and CT scans, can help assess the extent of the tumor and its involvement with surrounding tissues. These studies are crucial for surgical planning and staging.

Histopathological Analysis

A biopsy followed by histopathological examination is the gold standard for diagnosing verrucous carcinoma. The histopathological features include well-differentiated squamous cells, a verrucous surface, and minimal cellular atypia.

What are the Treatment Options for Verrucous Carcinoma?

Treatment options for verrucous carcinoma vary depending on the tumor's location, size, and stage. The primary modalities include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

Surgical Excision

Surgical excision is the treatment of choice for verrucous carcinoma. Complete removal of the tumor with clear margins is crucial to prevent recurrence. In cases where the tumor is extensive, reconstructive surgery may be necessary.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy can be used as a primary treatment or adjunctively with surgery. However, there is a risk that radiation may transform verrucous carcinoma into a more aggressive form of squamous cell carcinoma.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is generally not the first line of treatment for verrucous carcinoma but may be considered in cases where surgery and radiation are not feasible or have failed.

Preventive Measures

Preventive strategies are crucial in reducing the risk of developing verrucous carcinoma:

Avoiding Tobacco Use: Quitting smoking and avoiding smokeless tobacco can significantly reduce the risk.
HPV Vaccination: Vaccination against Human Papillomavirus Infection (HPV) can help prevent infections that may lead to verrucous carcinoma.
Regular Dental Check-ups: Regular visits to the dentist can help detect early signs of oral verrucous carcinoma.

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How Is Verrucous Carcinoma Staged?

Staging of verrucous carcinoma is based on the TNM (Tumor, Node, Metastasis) system, which takes into account the size and extent of the primary tumor, regional lymph node involvement, and distant metastasis.

Tumor (T)

T1: Tumor 2 cm in greatest dimension.
T2: Tumor 2 cm but 4 cm in greatest dimension.
T3: Tumor 4 cm in greatest dimension.
T4: Tumor invades adjacent structures.

Node (N)

N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.
N1: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm in greatest dimension.
N2: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm but 6 cm, or in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none 6 cm, or in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none 6 cm.
N3: Metastasis in a lymph node 6 cm in greatest dimension.

Metastasis (M)

M0: No distant metastasis.
M1: Distant metastasis present.

Is Verrucous Carcinoma Dangerous?

While verrucous carcinoma is typically less aggressive than other forms of squamous cell carcinoma, it can cause significant local tissue destruction and morbidity if not treated promptly. It rarely metastasizes but can recur if not completely excised.

What Is the Recovery Process for Verrucous Carcinoma?

Recovery depends on the location, size, and treatment used. Many patients need regular monitoring because recurrence can occur.

Attend all follow-up appointments
Maintain wound and oral care after surgery
Stop smoking and tobacco use
Eat a nutritious soft diet if advised
Report any new growth quickly

What Is Verrucous Carcinoma of the Tongue?

Verrucous carcinoma of the tongue is a specific subtype that presents unique challenges due to the tongue's anatomical complexity and functional importance. Symptoms may include persistent pain, difficulty swallowing, and speech disturbances. Treatment typically involves surgical excision, and in advanced cases, partial or total glossectomy may be required.

How Is Verrucous Hyperplasia Different from Verrucous Carcinoma?

Verrucous hyperplasia is a benign condition that can sometimes be mistaken for verrucous carcinoma. Both conditions present with similar clinical features, but verrucous hyperplasia lacks the invasive properties of verrucous carcinoma. Histopathological examination is necessary to differentiate between the two.