Plantar Warts
1. What is it ?
Plantar warts, also known as verrucae pedis, are small, rough growths on the soles of feet. They usually show up on the balls and heels of the feet, the areas that bear the most pressure. This pressure may also cause a wart to grow inward beneath a hard, thick layer of skin (callus). Plantar warts are not malignant, neither are they harmful. While generally harmless, warts can occasionally cause irritation or minor pain based on their location.
2. Causes
Plantar warts are caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). This virus enters through tiny cuts or breaks on the bottom of the feet.
3. Signs and Symptoms
- A small, rough growth on the bottom of your foot, usually at the base of the toes or on the ball or heel
- Hard, thickened skin (callus) over a spot on the skin, where a wart has grown inward
- Black pinpoints, which are small clotted blood vessels
- A cluster of growths on the sole of the foot (mosaic warts)
- Pain or tenderness when walking or standing
4. Treatment
For healthy individuals, the immune system can often clear the viral infection without the need for treatment. Most warts naturally resolve without intervention, however depending on an individual’s immunity and the severity of symptoms, additional treatment may be necessary:
- Mechanical debridement followed by topical application of salicylic acid, silver nitrate or phenol, or performing cryotherapy
- Swift Microwave Therapy
- Verrucae Falknor’s needling
- Surgical excision