Warts are an infection in the skin caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV)
There are many names for foot warts – papillomas, verruca or plantar warts
Warts are common, with children and teenagers more commonly affected than adults
Causes:
Warts are contracted through skin-to-skin contact
Risk factors in contracting a wart are: - Injuries to the skin - Skin infections that break the skin surface - Standing on infected wet areas such as public showers or swimming pools - Direct contact with other people’s warts - Scratching your own warts and spreading them to other areas
Diagnosis:
Warts under the foot (plantar warts) can appear similar to corns
While it is common for children to develop warts, it is uncommon for them to develop corns
Your Podiatrist can also easily differentiate a wart from a corn
Treatment:
Not all warts require treatment. Some warts will simply resolve in time, but it can take a several years for them to disappear
Your Podiatrist can discuss the treatment options with you including: - Salicylic acid - Cryotherapy or freezing with liquid nitrogen - Cantherone
In people who have weakened immune systems, warts are less likely to clear up on their own and do not respond well to treatment
