Wart
A hard, rough lump that grows on the skin which is an infection caused by certain viruses. It typically occurs on the hands or feet. Also called verruca.
Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are viral infections that usually develop on the soles of the foot, where they are usually flattened by the pressure of walking and are surrounded by thickened skin. They tend to be hard and flat, with a rough surface and well-defined boundaries. Warts may also appear on the top of the foot or toes where they are usually raised and fleshier.
Warts are often flesh tone and have small black dots in the center. Unlike corns and calluses, plantar warts tend to bleed when debrided due to the many tiny blood vessels.
How do you treat it?
- In general, warts can be removed with topical chemicals, frozen off, or burned off with a laser or electrical current.
- Chemicals usually require multiple applications over several weeks to months. The wart is debrided to remove dead tissue before each treatment.
- Typical chemicals used for removal include salicylic acid. This is main ingredient in many over the counter creams or solution.
- Freezing (cryotherapy) is safe and does not usually require any numbing of the area but may be too painful for children to tolerate.
- Burning warts off is effective but is more painful and usually leaves a scar. A pulsed dye laser is also effective but, like freezing, usually requires multiple treatments.
How do you prevent them?
- Always wear flip-flops or sandals in public showers or public areas - this helps prevent contact with viruses such as warts.
- Wash and thoroughly dry your feet.
