Warts – Heck’s Disease (Focal Epithelia Hyperplasia)

Heck’s disease is a rare condition in which the HPV virus 13 and 32 can cause small warts in the oral cavity.  These can occur on the lips, tongue, palate, and oral mucosa.  It is most commonly seen in children and young adults.  The warts do not really appear “warty” or verrucous but are very small pink/white papules (bumps).  Heck’s disease has a predilection for certain ethnic groups such as Native Americans.  The most effective treatment is cryosurgery but topical treatment with retinoid creams has been used with some success as an alternative treatment.