Review of the Psychotherapy of Warts

Superficial Keratitis

“…It has been stated that warts may disappear on psychotherapy or suggestion (Allington, 1952). In our case, making the corneal replica did not affect the keratitis.…”

Regression of plane warts following spontaneous inflammation.

“…It is not uncommon for warts to disappear spontaneously; this is especially likely in plane warts in children (Naseman, 1961). Not infrequently, disappearance is preceded by an inflammatory reaction, the development of which has been shown to be a good prognostic sign {Allington, 1952). Its severity is variable; usually it is mild and it is overlooked by patients.…”

The Hypnotic Control of Blood Flow and Pain: The Cure of Warts and the Potential for the Use of Hypnosis in the Treatment of Cancer

“…An exception is the report of Jacobson, Hackett, Surman and Silverberg (1973), who treated a patient with Raynaud phenomenon and increased the temperature in his hands bilaterally using combined hypnotic and operant (biofeedback) techniques. Allington (1952) reviews papers reporting blistering, bleeding, and gangene as occuring under psychic and hypnotic influence. Grabowska (1971) gives a good review and discussion of this subject.…”

“…Indeed, it may be that the awareness of the subconscious mind is increased under these conditions. Allington (1952) pointed out that we need to be cautious in saying that hypnosis can cure warts, and that without controlled experiments "the evidence that psychotherapy is an effective method of treatment for warts is inconclusive." (cf.…”

“…The success of hypnosis in treating warts, without even mentioning blood flow, could well be associated with this phenomenon. See also Allington (1952) for a discussion of the various mechanisms that might be involved in the hypnotherapy of wart removal.…”