Plantar Warts : Foot and Ankle Common Disorders - American Health Network American Health Network Return to Common Disorders Description The common wart is known as verruca vulgaris. They are caused by a viral infection of the skin. This occurs as a result of direct contact with the virus. They do not spread through the blood stream. They occur more commonly in children than adults. When they occur on the bottom of the foot, they are called plantar warts. This name is derived from the location of the foot on which they are found; the bottom of the foot is called the plantar aspect of the foot. A common misconception is that plantar warts have seeds or roots that grow through the skin and can attach to the bone. The wart may appear to have a root or seeds, but these are in fact small clusters of the wart just beneath the top layer of the skin. The wart cannot live in any tissue except the skin. Moist, sweaty feet can predispose to infection by the wart virus. They can be picked up in showers and around swimming pools. They are not highly contagious, but being exposed in just the right situation will lead to the development of the wart. Avoiding contact in the general environment is nearly impossible.

If a member of the family has the infection, care should be taken to keep shower and tile floor clean. Children who have plantar warts should not share their shoes with other people. Young girls often share shoes with their friends and this should be discouraged. Diagnosis The warts have the appearance of thick, scaly skin. They can occur as small, single warts or can cluster into large areas. These clustered warts are called mosaic warts. They often resemble plantar calluses. A simple way to tell the difference between a wart and a callous is to squeeze the lesion between your fingers in a pinching fashion. If this is painful, it is likely that the lesion is a wart. A callous is generally not painful with this maneuver but is tender with direct pressure by pressing directly on the lesion. Othe lesions on the bottom of the foot that are often confused with plantars warts are porokeratoses and inclusion cysts. Treatment There are a variety of ways to treat warts. The over-the-counter medications have a difficult time penetrating the thick skin on the bottom of the foot, so they do not work well in this area.

Professional treatment consists of burning the wart with topical acids, freezing with liquid nitrogen, laser surgery or cutting them out. All methods have the possibility of the wart coming back. Surgical excision of the wart has the highest success rate with a relatively low rate of recurrence. There is some mild discomfort with this procedure and it takes several weeks for the area to completely heal. Normal activity can generally be resumed in a few days depending on the size and number of warts that have been removed. The risks associated with surgical removal of warts are the possibility of infection, or the formation of a scar, which can be painful when weight is applied while walking. Laser removal of the wart works by burning the wart with a laser beam. The area must be numbed with an anesthetic prior to the procedure. There is little advantage to removing warts with a laser unless the warts are very large (mosaic warts) or there are a large number to be removed. The risks associated with the use of the laser are the same as for cutting the warts out. These risks include infection and the development of a scar after healing. A new type of laser has been developed to treat several different types of skin lesions called the Pulsed Dye Laser.

This new laser has promise in the effective treatment of warts. Freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen is another form of treatment. This form of treatment when the warts are on the bottom of the foot can be very painful and take several days or weeks to heal. Topical acids can also be a useful means of treating warts. The advantage to this form of treatment is the fact that they are nearly painless and there is no restriction of activity. The down side to this form of treatment is that it frequently requires several treatments and the failure rate is higher than surgical excision of the wart. Alaska Podiatry Associates | - Plantar Warts Plantar Warts The common wart is known as verruca vulgaris. They are caused by a viral infection of the skin. This occurs as a result of direct contact with the virus. They do not spread through the blood stream. They occur more commonly in children than adults. When they occur on the bottom of the foot, they are called plantar warts. This name is derived from the location of the foot on which they are found; the bottom of the foot is called the plantar aspect of the foot.

A common misconception is that plantar warts have seeds or roots that grow through the skin and can attach to the bone. The wart may appear to have a root or seeds, but these are in fact small clusters of the wart just beneath the top layer of the skin. The wart cannot live in any tissue except the skin. Moist, sweaty feet can predispose to infection by the wart virus. They can be picked up in showers and around swimming pools. They are not highly contagious, but being exposed in just the right situation will lead to the development of the wart. Avoiding contact in the general environment is nearly impossible. If a member of the family has the infection, care should be taken to keep shower and tile floor clean. Children who have plantar warts should not share their shoes with other people. Young girls often share shoes with their friends and this should be discouraged. Diagnosis The warts have the appearance of thick, scaly skin. They can occur as small, single warts or can cluster into large areas. These clustered warts are called mosaic warts. They often resemble plantar calluses . A simple way to tell the difference between a wart and a callus is to squeeze the lesion between your fingers in a pinching fashion.

If this is painful, it is likely that the lesion is a wart. A callus is generally not painful with this maneuver but is tender with direct pressure by pressing directly on the lesion. Other lesions on the bottom of the foot that are often confused with plantars warts are porokeratoses and inclusion cysts. Treatment There are a variety of ways to treat warts. The over-the-counter medications have a difficult time penetrating the thick skin on the bottom of the foot, so they do not work well in this area. Professional treatment consists of burning the wart with topical acids, freezing with liquid nitrogen, laser surgery or cutting them out. All methods have the possibility of the wart coming back. Surgical excision of the wart has the highest success rate with a relatively low rate of recurrence. There is some mild discomfort with this procedure and it takes several weeks for the area to completely heal. Normal activity can generally be resumed in a few days depending on the size and number of warts that have been removed. The risks associated with surgical removal of warts are the possibility of infection, or the formation of a scar, which can be painful when weight is applied while walking. Laser removal of the wart works by burning the wart with a laser beam.

The area must be numbed with an anesthetic prior to the procedure. There is little advantage to removing warts with a laser unless the warts are very large (mosaic warts) or there are a large number to be removed. The risks associated with the use of the laser are the same as for cutting the warts out. These risks include infection and the development of a scar after healing. A new type of laser has been developed to treat several different types of skin lesions called the Pulsed Dye Laser. This new laser has promise in the effective treatment of warts. Freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen is another form of treatment. This form of treatment when the warts are on the bottom of the foot can be very painful and take several days or weeks to heal. Topical acids can also be a useful means of treating warts. The advantage to this form of treatment is the fact that they are nearly painless and there is no restriction of activity. The down side to this form of treatment is that it frequently requires several treatments and the failure rate is higher than surgical excision of the wart. Article provided by PodiatryNetwork.com . Plantar Warts | Treatment for Plantar Warts in Michigan | Dr.

Young You are here: Home » Plantar Warts What are Plantar Warts? A plantar wart, or foot wart, is similar to warts found on other parts of the body, and are caused by the human papillomavirus, more commonly known as HPV. Foot warts are small, light colored lesions that grow on the sole of the foot, and sometimes pieces of hardened skin grow over them. They are typically white in appearance, and can look like cauliflower or a callus. However, warts are different from calluses in that striations in toe prints (like finger prints), go around the lesion, not through it. Foot warts can also be quite irritating or painful if left untreated. Like most viruses, plantar warts are not “curable”, but are self-limiting, meaning they do not continue to spread throughout the body if left untreated. Nonetheless, treatment with a podiatrist for foot warts is important to reduce pain, decrease the lifespan of the wart, and eliminate chances for spread. If you live in Michigan and want to rid yourself of an irritating wart, please contact Dr. Young at the bottom of this page. How are Foot Warts Caused?

There are as many as 10 different strains of human papillomavirus that cause plantar warts. The virus must be contracted through direct contact to an infected host with an exposed part of the skin, usually from tiny cuts or abrasions. Warts generally do not form for several months after exposure. How can Plantar Warts be prevented? Plantar warts require direct exposure to the virus, so avoid skin contact with places and objects that have a high likelihood of contamination. Common areas of exposure include public swimming pools and changing rooms, and chance for exposure can be reduced by using sandals in changing rooms, avoiding towel sharing, and not making direct contact with benches and other high-traffic areas. Plantar Wart Symptoms | Symptoma® Incidence: 2 / 100.000 Overview Warts are small, rough growths that develop on the skin. Plantar warts refer to those warts that form on the foot, primarily on the sole. Warts have multifactorial etiology; however, plantar warts in particular are caused by human papilloma virus. Several strains of this virus can cause the development of plantar warts. The disease is self-limiting and requires only conservative treatment.

Complicated cases that fail to respond to conservative treatment may require minor surgical intervention. Etiology The causative agent of plantar warts is a virus known as the human papilloma virus (HPV) [1]. There are more than a hundred types of this virus. Out of them, the types that commonly lead to the development of plantar warts include types 1, 2, 4, 60 and 63 [2]. Rarely, plantar warts may be caused by types 57, 65, 66 and 156. Infection occurs when the virus invades the compromised portions of the skin through direct contact. This may occur when a person with cuts or abrasions walks on moist surfaces such as near showers or swimming pools. This infection is uncommon in people who always walk barefoot since the soles of such people’s feet become hard and crusty. As shown by a survey in China and India, there is only a 0.29% incidence of plantar warts in people who walk barefoot [3]. Epidemiology Plantar warts affect around 7 to 10% of the population in the United States.

Males and females are affected equally; however, genetic and racial factors play a predisposing role. Certain researches indicate that warts occur two times more commonly in blacks as compared to whites [4]. Pathophysiology The invasion and infection of the human papilloma virus in the plantar skin triggers a series of changes that leads to the formation of warts. The exact mechanism of these changes is not very clear; however, it is known to be due to an immune response to the virus. The primary changes that occur consist of the thickening of several of layers of the skin including the stratum corneum (by deposition of excess of keratin), stratum spinosum and stratum granulosum, as well as elongation of the rete ridges. Prognosis The prognosis of the patients suffering from plantar warts is excellent. In up to 27% of the patients, the disease may resolve on its own without any treatment. In the rest, medical and surgical treatment is associated with a very good cure rate and the patients do not suffer from long term nuisance because of these warts. Presentation A plantar wart appears on the sole of the foot as a small cauliflower-shaped lesion.

There is a central dark spot in the lesion that is in fact a petechial hemorrhage . Scratching of the may result in bleeding. Upon standing or walking, pain is felt at the site of the wart. Workup Plantar warts can usually be diagnosed simply upon physical examination. Plantar warts are often confused with calluses, however, there is a simple observation that can differentiate them. In case of plantar warts, the striations of the feet go around the lesion of the wart. On the other hand, in the case of calluses, the striations run straight across the top layer of the skin, even over the lesion. Treatment Plantar warts should be treated by medical or surgical interventions if the pain is too much to bear. Keratolytic agents (agents that break down keratin) containing salicyclic acid are the first line of treatment for plantar warts [5] [6]. These agents are often available as over the counter medications. They are used daily for 12 weeks with a complete success rate of 10-15%. Similar agents containing trichloroacetic acid are also equally effective.

Immunotherapy is the second line treatment for plantar warts [7] [8]. Antigens that trigger the immune response of the body are injected. The resultant immune response is quite localized to the area of the wart. This often leads to a faster resolution of the lesion. Surgical interventions are considered when other therapies are not effective [9] [10]. Cryosurgery which involves internal freezing of the cells of the warts by the use of liquid nitrogen is one of the frequently used methods. Other methods include surgical excision and removal of the wart, cauterization and laser therapy. Prevention Walking barefoot is known to be an effective preventive measure against the development of plantar warts. Barefoot walking makes the skin of the feet thicker that helps prevent plantar warts. The infection progresses in moist, closed environments due to which it is recommended to avoid wearing shoes immediately after walking barefoot in moist public areas such as pools and showers. Since these warts are contagious, they should not be touched directly. Sharing of socks or shoes with the affected person should also be avoided.

According to the British National Health Service, children with warts should wear an adhesive bandage when they swim; wear flip-flops when they use public showers and avoid sharing their towels with anyone else. Patient Information Warts that form on the sole of the foot are known as plantar warts. They may have a rough, cauliflower like shape or may resemble a blister. They are formed as a result of infection with several strains of a virus known as human papilloma virus. Plantar warts often heal on their own and require very limited treatment. Cases that do not heal despite proper treatment may require some minor surgery for the removal of the wart. References Tondra JM, Carlin GA. Plantar warts; their etiology and treatment. The American journal of nursing. Jul 1955;55(7):828-829. Laurent R, Kienzler JL, Croissant O, Orth G. Two anatomoclinical types of warts with plantar localization: specific cytopathogenic effects of papillomavirus. Type I (HPV-1) and type 2 (HPV-2). Archives of dermatological research.

1982;274(1-2):101-111. Shulman A. Survey in China and India of Feet That Have Never Worn Shoes. The Journal of the National Association of Chiropodists. 1949. Mallory SB, Baugh LS, Parker RK. Warts in blacks versus whites. Pediatric dermatology. Mar 1991;8(1):91. Zschocke I, Hartmann A, Schlobe A, Cummerow R, Augustin M. [Efficacy and benefit of a 5-FU/salicylic acid preparation in the therapy of common and plantar warts--systematic literature review and meta-analysis]. Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft = Journal of the German Society of Dermatology : JDDG. Mar 2004;2(3):187-193. Le Cleach L, Trinquart L, Penso-Assathiany D, Chosidow O. Comparative effectiveness of cryotherapy and salicylic acid for plantar warts. Archives of dermatology.

Nov 2012;148(11):1311-1313. Gamil H, Elgharib I, Nofal A, Abd-Elaziz T. Intralesional immunotherapy of plantar warts: report of a new antigen combination. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. Jul 2010;63(1):40-43. van der Steen P, van de Kerkhof P, der Kinderen D, van Vlijmen I, Happle R. Clinical and immunohistochemical responses of plantar warts to topical immunotherapy with diphenylcyclopropenone. The Journal of dermatology. Jun 1991;18(6):330-333. Brown JB, Fryer MP. Repair of surface defects of the foot; resurfacing the foot by plastic surgery for defects such as plantar warts and traumatic, thermal and radiation lesions. Journal of the American Medical Association. Jun 16 1951;146(7):628-633. Dufourmentel C, Mouly R.

[Role of surgery in the treatment of plantar warts & calluses]. La Presse medicale. Oct 1 1958;66(67):1517-1519. Clinical dermatology - TP Habif - 2009 - books.google.com Common cutaneous disorders in athletes. - RJ Conklin - Sports medicine (Auckland, NZ), 1990 - ukpmc.ac.uk Sex distribution Plantar Warts and Palmer Warts: Treatments and Causes Plantar Warts and Palmer Warts In this Article Plantar warts and Palmer warts are common, especially in children. These warts are named for where they appear on the body. Palmer warts occur on the hands, and plantar warts on the bottom of the foot. Virtually everyone will have a wart (or several) someplace at some time in their lives. What Are Plantar Warts and Palmer Warts? Plantar warts and palmer warts are noncancerous skin growths, caused by a viral infection in the top layer of the skin. The culprit is a strain of virus called human papillomavirus or HPV.

Many strains of the virus exist, and those that cause common warts on the hands and feet are not the same strains of HPV that cause genital warts . Some people mistakenly think plantar warts or palmer warts are malignant. In fact, they are not harmful. Eventually, in about two years, most warts go away without treatment. Warts can, however, cause irritation or minor pain, depending on their location. Also, warts may appear unsightly and make the person who has them self-conscious. What Do Plantar Warts and Palmer Warts Look Like? On average plantar warts and palmer warts are small, about the size of a pencil eraser. But some warts grow bigger. Sometimes plantar warts can grow in clusters; those are called mosaic warts. Sometimes corns or calluses are mistaken for a palmer or plantar wart. In some warts, little black dots appear, leading people to call them "seed" warts. Actually the black dots are little blood vessels that have grown up into the wart.

Warts don’t really have “seeds.” Plantar warts usually don't stick up above the skin as much as warts on the hand, partly because of the pressure of walking and its flattening effect. How Do You Get a Plantar Wart or Palmer Wart? Warts are spread from person to person. The transmission can be indirect. For instance, a child with a wart on his hand may touch a playground surface that is then touched by another child and the wart spreads. Or a person with a plantar wart uses a shower without wearing shower shoes and another person then uses it and develops a wart. The risk of getting a hand or foot wart from another person is small. A person's risk of getting a wart varies. Those with a weakened immune system are more susceptible. But those with healthy immune systems can also develop warts. Continued What Are Treatments for Plantar Warts and Palmer Warts? Plantar warts and palmer warts will often eventually go away without treatment. If they bother you, however, you can treat common skin warts in a variety of ways. Duct tape is one home remedy. Put a small strip over the wart and leave it on for six days.

Then, remove the tape, soak the wart in water, and then gently debride it with a pumice stone or emory board. Repeat the process many times until the wart is gone. This may take a couple of months. Don’t expect miracles with this type ot treatment since it probably does not work any better than a placebo . Over-the-counter wart treatments work about 50% of the time. These wart removers usually work by peeling the wart. Doctor's treatments include freezing the wart off with liquid nitrogen, removing the wart with laser or surgery, or applying or injecting medicines to strengthen the immune system so it can clear your body of the virus. Treatment, however, is not fast and easy. Home treatment for hand warts, for instance, can take a few weeks up to a few months. Foot warts are challenging to treat because most of the wart lies below the skin surface. Even if a treatment is successful, the wart can reappear. If a wart is not bothersome, doctors say it can be left alone. Given time, the wart may disappear on its own, thanks to the immune system.

WebMD Medical Reference Reviewed by Debra Jaliman, MD on June 11, 2015 Sources SOURCES: Stephen Webster, MD, dermatologist at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, La Crosse, Wis.; and clinical professor of dermatology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis. Nanette Silverberg, MD, director of pediatric and adolescent dermatology, St. Luke's--Roosevelt Hospital, and assistant professor of clinical dermatology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, N.Y. American Academy of Dermatology: "What are warts?" © 2015 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved. Pagination Plantar Wart - What You Need to Know This material must not be used for commercial purposes, or in any hospital or medical facility. Failure to comply may result in legal action. Plantar Wart WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is a plantar wart? A plantar wart is a thick, rough skin growth on the bottom of your foot. Plantar warts are benign (not cancer) and they are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a germ that spreads through direct contact.

It usually enters the skin through cuts or scratches on the bottom of your feet. You may get a plantar wart if you touch someone else's wart. What are the signs and symptoms of a plantar wart? Plantar warts most commonly form on pressure points, such as the heel or ball of your foot. You may have any of the following: A flat, gray, brown, or flesh-colored growth Black dots in the center of your wart One wart or a cluster of them A small wart that grows in size Pain or tenderness when you walk or stand How is a plantar wart treated by a healthcare provider? Keratolytic therapy is when acid medicine is used to thin the wart. The medicine causes the outer layer of the skin to loosen and shed. Your healthcare provider may start this therapy in his office and tell you to continue to use the medicine at home. Cryotherapy is when your healthcare provider freezes the wart with a strong liquid nitrogen in his office. The skin on and around your wart may form a red blister. The dead wart tissue then dries up and falls off in a few weeks. Immunotherapy uses medicine to help your immune system kill the HPV. This may make your wart go away.

The medicine may be cream or a shot. Laser therapy treatment uses a narrow beam of light to cut away the wart. Surgery to remove the ward may be needed. Your healthcare provider will numb your skin, remove the wart, and use electricity to burn the area to help prevent it from returning. How can I treat my plantar wart at home? Use home treatments as directed. Keep your wart and skin clean and dry between treatments. Salicylic acid is an over-the-counter peeling agent that comes as a liquid. Soak your foot in warm water for up to 20 minutes. Apply a small amount of salicylic acid directly to your wart. Avoid getting it on other skin areas, because it may irritate healthy skin. Let it dry, and cover the wart as directed. After several hours, use a pumice stone or nail file to gently remove dead skin. Use 2 times each day for as long as directed. A plaster patch is also available over-the-counter. Cut the patch to the size of your wart. Apply the sticky side to the wart. After 1 to 2 days, peel the patch off and apply a fresh patch. Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze your wart.

Liquid nitrogen is available over-the-counter but may also be applied at your healthcare provider's office. Liquid nitrogen may cause mild pain for a short time. Use only as directed. Duct tape can help dry and remove the wart. Use as directed. You may be directed to leave the duct tape on for 6 days. On day 7, take the tape off and soak the wart in warm water for 5 minutes. Gently scrape the wart with a pumice stone or nail file. Then apply a new piece of duct tape and follow the same steps until the wart is gone. How can I prevent another plantar wart? Do not touch your wart, or someone else's wart. If you do touch your wart, wash your hands. Do not walk barefoot in public places. Wear shower shoes or sandals in warm, damp areas such as locker rooms, shower stalls, and swimming pool areas. Keep your feet clean and dry. Use foot powder between your toes and on your feet after you wash and dry them. Change socks often to avoid damp feet. If your shoes are damp from sweat, set them in a place where they can dry out before you wear them again. Do not share or reuse items.

Examples include nail files, pumice stones, socks, or towels. Clean these items with hot soapy water before you use them again. When should I contact my healthcare provider? Your wart returns or does not go away after treatment. Your wart grows larger or begins to spread or cluster. You have bleeding or increased pain after treatment. You have questions or concerns about your condition or care. Care Agreement You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you. © 2016 Truven Health Analytics Inc. Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes. All illustrations and images included in CareNotes® are the copyrighted property of A.D.A.M., Inc. or Truven Health Analytics. The above information is an educational aid only.

It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you. Prevention and Treatment of Plantar Warts | 866-866-FEET Submit Plantar Warts (Verruca Plantaris) Wart is a skin condition that is very commonly found on different parts of the skin. If the wart is present on the bottom of the foot, it is called Plantar wart, plantar means the bottom. This is present especially at the weight-bearing areas like the heels and the balls on the foot. The technical name for warts is Verruca Plantaris, but they are more ordinarily referred to as Plantar Wart, as the term "plantar" refers to the bottom of the foot. A wart appears as thick, rough, callus- like thickenings that grow on the soles of the feet; it develops when the skin is infected by a virus. It is estimated that 7-10% of the US population are currently affected with warts. There are two particular types of warts: solitary and mosaic.

When warts are presented as a solitary lesion, they are known as solitary warts. It often increases in size and may eventually multiply, forming additional "satellite" warts. In contrast to solitary warts, mosaic warts are a cluster of several small warts growing closely together in one area. Evidently, mosaic warts are more difficult to treat than solitary warts. However, with Dr. Ravaei's years of experience with patients, he is capable of treating any case of the warts easily and doing the best to get rid of this condition. Undoubtedly, Plantar Warts affect both males and females, as both men and woman are carriers of HPV. Over the years, Dr. Ravaei has seen patients with the case of Plantar Warts in all age groups, but it is has been more commonly seen among children and adolescents between the ages of 12-16. Warts are viral in nature. They are the manifestation and growth of a contagious virus known as HPV (the Human Papillomavirus). It invades the skin through small cuts on its surface.

Once they are internal through the skin, the virus can grow and spread to other locations on the body, stimulating the rapid generation of cells on the surface of your skin. There are over 60 different strains of HPV; HPV 1, 2, 4, 63 belong to the Plantar Wart. One can self-spread the lesions. Plantar Warts commonly begin in areas of traumatized skin. They are also contracted from communal areas such as locker rooms, bathrooms, and hotel rooms. In order to decrease the spreading of warts to others while in such areas, the use of disinfectants and sandals is encouraged. PREVENTION In order to reduce the risk factors of Plantar Warts, Dr. Ravaei recommends that you do the following: Avoid direct contact with warts. Make sure to actively keep your feet clean and dry and remember to change your socks daily. Resist going barefoot in public areas: public pools, saunas, and locker rooms. Remember to wear sandals. Restrain from picking your warts as they can spread to other areas. Wash your hands carefully after touching your warts. TREATMENT To diagnose a plantar wart, Dr.

Ravaei will examine the patient's foot and look for signs and symptoms of a wart. Because a wart is a virus, the goal of the professional is to remove the affected area that contains the warty skin cells, while keeping damage to the surrounding tissue to a minimum. In this case, Dr. Ravaei may choose one of several possible methods. Here are a few techniques that Dr. Ravaei utilizes. It needs to be mentioned that he will examine the patient and based on their condition, he will use the best technique to once and for all rid of this disfiguring condition. One of the methods is cryotherapy. Cryotherapy is when an extremely cold solution is used to freeze the wart and thus kill the virus. This treatment has been around for a while and it may require the patient to return to the office for a few treatments. Another common treatment is applying acid to the wart. The way this treatment works is very similar to the cryotherapy. First the lesion is identified and the solution is applied to the area. The solution usually kills the virus but this one as well requires for the patient to come back few times for a follow up. Dr.

Ravaei may choose to inject the wart with a drug that will attack the virus. Bleomycin and interferon-alpha have been used with success in these applications. Bleomycin is an antibiotic produced by the bacterium Streptomyces verticillus and acts by inhibiting DNA synthesis in cells and viruses; it breaks up strands of the DNA molecule. The human papilloma virus (HPV) that infects the skin and causes the wart to form dies as its DNA is chopped up by the bleomycin. Bleomycin may also target the blood vessels that feed the wart. Dr. Ravaei may use cantharidin -- a substance extracted from the blister beetle -- on your warts. Typically, the extract is mixed with other chemicals, painted onto the skin and covered with a bandage. The application is painless, but the resulting skin blister can be uncomfortable and may cause swelling. However, the blister has an important purpose. It lifts the wart off your skin, so your doctor can remove the dead part of the wart. Laser surgery: Laser surgery uses an intense beam of light, or laser, to burn and destroy the wart tissue. Dr.

Ravaei offers two procedures for laser wart removal; one type of laser cuts away the growth, while another cauterizes the blood vessels that feed it so that the wart dies and falls away on its own. Laser surgery is considered by many as the last treatment for warts. Usually when all other treatments fail, this treatment is used to once and for all get rid of the condition. The patient usually needs to come back for a few treatments to get rid of the condition. Sometime the insurance does not cover the laser treatment and the patient might need to pay out of pocket for part or all of the treatment. Surgical procedures: Dr. Ravaei may choose to use a technique that involves cutting away the wart via a process called electrodesiccation and curettage, which uses an electric needle. The lesion could also be removed with a blade. This will require the patient to undergo local anesthesia and or sedation and it may mean the patient might be required to take few days off from work should this lesion be on a weight-bearing part of the body. The procedure may feel cumbersome for some patients; however, it is an effective form of treatment and results in long- term wart removal.

Request A Free Consultation WARTS- Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention home --> warts WHAT ARE WARTS This is a skin condition very commonly seen on the feet. More commonly known as a plantar wart (plantar, meaning bottom of foot) these growths are viral in nature. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus is everywhere which may explain why this growth affect about 9 million Americans every year. The virus thrives in warm moist environments such as public pools and locker rooms and transmit by direct contact. They are considered benign tumors. The lesions generally occur spontaneously, but many times can be seen in areas of trauma such as after stepping on something that penetrates the skin thus creating an opening for the virus to manifest itself. Depending on where they are located on the foot, they can be painful. More often than not if left untreated they will spread by auto-inoculation particularly in children but also in immuno-compromised adults, but they are also known to spontaneously disappear as well. A Wart can present as a solitary lesion or they can appear in clusters more commonly known as a mosaic. Many times they are more painful when squeezed compared to direct pressure applied to them.

They contain their own blood supply which is represented by the black dots that you may see within them. That is also the reason they bleed so readily when they are scraped. Over the years I have seen many doctors who do not specialize in foot problems, misdiagnose warts. Many times they are misdiagnosed as calluses (or calluses are mistakenly called warts). Other conditions such as porokeratosis, or plugged sweat glands are erroneously called warts. Below is a picture of mosaic warts. The picture above is a solitary wart located on the bottom of the foot just behind the third toe. TREATMENT OF WARTS There are what seem to be a hundred different treatments which tell you that there is no acceptable treatment. There is also an abundance of folk remedies, the reason being that since warts can spontaneously disappear, the remedies end up getting the credit. There is a very high recurrence rate. The problem with a plantar wart compared to a wart elsewhere on the body, is that the ones located elsewhere are generally outgrowths, meaning that they grow out from the skin so most of the growth is visible making treatment simple.

Unfortunately, a wart on the bottom of the foot is pushed inward from walking on them meaning the majority of the growth is beneath the skin. This is complicated by the fact that many parts of the bottom of the foot contain thick skin further protecting the growth from treatment. Does a wart need to be treated? One or two solitary lesions that do not hurt can be left alone and watched in the hopes that they may spontaneously disappear. However, should one notice that the warts are beginning to spread, treatment is highly recommended; the logic being that if ignored the growths will continue to spread, possibly become painful, and that the more warts one has, the harder it will be to eradicate all of them. Treatment depends on their location and the number of warts present. A Wart over a bony prominence such as the ball of the foot should never be surgically removed because if a scar develops it may be as painful as the original wart. There are a million wart medications on the market, most of which are not strong enough for plantar warts (because the wart is beneath the skin). However, a foot specialist has available, stronger medications which in conjunction with regular paring of the wart will eradicate most cases of warts.

The upside to this treatment is that it is a reasonably painless experience and there should be no limitation on activity. The downside is that it can sometimes take a long time to eventually get rid of the wart. Take a look at the picture of the wart to the left. This wart is being treated with salicylic acid ointment by prescription. I actually placed this picture on the site to show my patients what a wart should look like when the proper amount of acid is being applied. If the immediate surrounding area becomes macerated, such as in this picture, then the proper amount is being applied. If the area does not look like this, then not enough medicine is being applied. If the macerated area extends way beyond the wart itself, then too much medication is being used. treatment for large numbers of warts For those who have many warts numbering in the dozens if not hundreds, simple acids or surgery will not work due to the large amount of warts that need to be treated. In these cases cimetidine (Tagamet, used for stomach ulcers) has been shown to be effective in eliminating cutaneous lesions such as warts.

The usual dose is 300-400mg twice a day for about eight weeks. The drug may also be used in children in smaller doses. It works by enhancing the body's immune system. Vitamin A in large oral doses, by prescription only, has also been shown to be effective in eliminating large areas of wart. Recently a natural phytochemical known as Diindolylmethane has become popular in treating warts. This substance is found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower. This supplement is more commonly referred to as DIM. Some of you reading this will recognize DIM as a product taken to better regulate estrogen levels in men and women. It is postulated that it works to destroy warts by promoting apoptosis (cell death) in papillomavirus. If you would like to try DIM it can be purchased at any vitamin store or on line. Be sure to buy a quality brand. Dosing is six 150mg capsules per day in divided doses. Noted side effects include gastrointestinal upset and possible discoloration of your urine. Laser surgery is also a popular method for wart removal.

Because the laser beam cauterizes the wound as it destroys the wart, healing is usually quicker than conventional excision of a wart. This is usually done in an outpatient setting which of course, adds additional expense and will require anesthesia. Vitamin D which is currently being touted as an effective treatment for many medical conditions, has been shown to be effective for warts. It is postulated that vitamin D3 has anti-viral properties and since warts are a virus, the vitamin may be effective. There is varying recommendations for dosing out there. The one I adhere to is 35 iu per pound, so a one hundred pound person should take 3500 iu per day. Having said that, I would also recommend having your blood levels of vitamin D checked to make sure you are not over medicating. As stated earlier there is a high recurrence rate with warts. If you have warts on other parts of your body, they too have to be treated at the same time as the plantar warts otherwise you will not get rid of the warts on your feet. It should be mentioned that any wart that seems to keep recurring should be biopsied to make sure it is not something other than a wart.

Although not common, a wart may be mistaken for a squamous cell carcinoma or a wart can actually deteriorate into what is known as verrucous carcinoma. Along those same lines, warts are commonly known as a "disease of adolescence" which should raise a degree of suspicion in older individuals who appear to have warts. These lesions should also be biopsied as they have a higher propensity to become malignant than warts observed in juveniles. Want more information? CLICK HERE Specific Recommendations For This Condition ONOX-foot solution spray-once daily spray, after shower, keeps feet dry and reduces odor. Particularly effective for those with habitual fungus and those with resistant warts as warts appear to thrive in moist skin. (available from Amazon) Relief for nail fungus click link below I've been doing some aggressive research lately (it's how I found your incredible website) and realize now that my symptoms are not consistant with the diagnosis. Jennifer ….after reviewing your amazing site (great for the avg. jill). So thank you very much!!! Liesbeth I am really, really impressed with your plain-speak explanations for the various conditions. Jacqueline NJ This was an extremely helpful site.

I have an appointment on the 18th and your info. Was right on target….. Jack Fla A well organized site containing much information written in a manner that the average reader can comprehend. Jean I found your website and articles most interesting. Andrew Fla. Thank you for a quick response. I think your site is the best information site on foot pain and I have viewed many. Judy (location unknown) I came to your website, footspecialist.net via explained .com which I think is also your website? I thought explanations for different types of problems were well addressed and thoughtfully stated for the patient in mind. L.W. New York You have an amazing and extremely informative site. I enjoyed looking through all of the data and stats. Yvette Thanks again so much for the information in the article. Very interesting. Anna Great article. I have had plantar fasciitis since I was in high school…….. J. Simmons (location unknown) Dear Dr. Mitnick, The orthotics arrived four days ago and I slipped them into my shoes immediately. I was skeptical as to the usefulness of the item, they really didn't look very exotic.

I have to say though, after using them for just four days, I have experienced grand relief from my foot pain. Even the very first day, I was able to do a lot of work while on my feet with at least a 75% reduction of pain. It has only gotten better every day, and I go nowhere without my shoes with the orthotics. I had been experiencing extreme heel and sole pain for about six months and had to take extended breaks off my feet many times a day as well as regular doses of Ibuprofen. Since getting the orthotics, my life has returned to normal and I feel good again. Just wanted to say thanks for the recommendation for a very effective item, I had no idea what a change this item could affect. Yours truly, Thanks for the Response, you hit it on the head. Steve Thank you for your time and expertise in answering my question….. LH (location unknown) First, thanks for putting together this website. Its the most informative site I have found dealing with foot problems. Last June I started having pain and swelling at ……. Joe (location unknown) First of all, thank you for having all this useful information available in one place.

I've been through most of your website and based on my research, pain and evaluations I think I've narrowed things down quite a bit. Pete M. Thank you for the best site I have found when researching foot pain. Glenda B. Madison, Alabama Thanks for replying so quickly. I was a bit concerned. I think your website is great, and chock full of info..... Carol Denison, TX Dr. Marc, Thank you so much for your reply which seemed to be right on. I have researched many sites but you put me on the right path to the possible answer. My foot pain may not rule the rest of my life after all! I believe I'll make a sign that reads, "THE END IS NEAR!" Thanks Very Much, Dawn West lafayette, IN Dear sir...no doubt you get positive comments re your site...May I please be added to the list of your admirers. In all of my years of web surfing I would say your site is right there with the very best. Thank you for taking the time to write the terrific info you provide and for putting things into laymen terms for us mere mortals. I pray you have much on going success and thank you again for a deed well done.

As for me I did not find much help for my symptoms and will continue on my quest. Were you anywhere in the South I would make and appointment...Thanks again dear sir...m.e. Michael E. Tampa, Florida 33624 Hi. This is a great site! I'm a healthy middle aged woman who is in good health, but..... Kelly Texas Just a wee word of thanks for your wonderful website...It is a terrific service...Thank you for providing your knowledge and help...With highest regards, m ebeling Michael D. Ebeling Thank you for your very interesting and informative site! Anonymous Hi. I come to your site often looking for information. It is really informative and I appreciate it very much. I have RA and have been having considerable amount of foot pain...... Dee RN Thanks very much for the wonderful informative site. Catherine New Zealand Thank You for my answer! I have been schedule for a bone density scan, allingment, and I am in the process of getting orthotics made, and checking out the natural remedies. Thank again! What a great web site! Sincerely Josette Yes I want both pair of orthotics.

You don't have an option of ordering 2 at one time so I had to place the order twice. Thanks. My husband likes these and wants to put them in all of his shoes. (referring to Superstep orthotics) Cindy H. Arizona I searched the internet everywhere for a clear description and illustration of my symptoms/problem. was where I ended my search with answers. If I lived in Jersey (left 30 years ago) and didn't live in Florida I would definetly make an appointment with Dr. Mitnick. Thanks, Kathy 1st of all THANKS A LOT for your great site...... Anna Poland Thank you so much for your response. I will let you know how I am doing if you would like. Your website is awesome! M P South Carolina Hello! I want to thank you for such an informative website! I found you based on my ankle pain search and am happy to realize that there may be a relatively simple cause and solution.... Natalie ...Thanks for your fantastic service. Gary Arlington, VA Thank you so very much, that would be much appreciated. I love those insoles, by the way. (referring to Superstep orthotics) Kelly W.

San Clemente, CA Dr Marc is fantastic...He seems to know exactly what you are feeling with the problems you are having. I wish he was in my home town so I could go to him with my problems!!!!!!!!!!!!! Pam Great insights! Thanks Doc, you're the best. Glen location unknown I have been experiencing foot pain of various sorts and am working to figure out what it is. I found this site and can only say BRAVO!! What an excellent site! The time it must have taken to put all this together must've been a daunting task! I am sure it has helped so many people. Thank you so very much for doing this. Bre location unknown Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so much for your reply. I did let my physician know and they took an x-ray - all is well! Also, thank you for providing this wonderful site, it is very helpful with lots of useful information! I appreciate your gift of time! God bless. anonymous Dr. Mitnick, Thank you, you were 100% correct. The pain finally brought me to the ER. I spent 8 days in the hospital. The Doppler you spoke of was able to show that there was no pulse in that foot.

This was an arterial clot that split and traveled throughout my leg. My leg was almost amputated. I am in rough shape but have all my parts intact!! You certainly know what you are talking about. Thank you for taking the time to answer. Yours Truly! anonymous Staying at home after hallux surgery I spend quite a lot of time seaching info useful for avoiding problems which might come back. Today I found your site and I am .... delighted it happened. It's one of the best site I found last days. Anna Poland Thanks for taking time to read and answer so many questions. It is truly a public service! Esh I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!! Bonnie location unknown Also, and importantly, just want to praise this web site. Thorough and thoughtfully presented, it certainly must be of considerable assistance to anyone with a foot problem. Terrific -- and very interesting.I trust the address comes up easily for those seeking information. Bill New Jersey Thanks so much for answering my question. You've been more help to me than my own Dr. has been lately. Thanks again....I hope to be able to walk without pain someday.

Debbie location unknown Wow, that is exactly the information needed!!! thank you thank you thank you!!! I appreciate this help so very much from Marc Mitnick DPM. Excellent information and help to improve One's life. Chrissy location unknown Thanks so much for this website Dr. Marc! It is so nice that you have this ask the doctor feature..I'm sure I'ts been helpful for alot of people. I will try what you suggested and see if it helps...thanks again! Tracy Evansville, IA Dear Marc I just want to say thank you for the quick response and the good info. I find it amazing and a super nice thing that you do here by answering medical questions at no charge. Russ W. location unknown Your website is full of a lot of helpful information, and I am very impressed with the time in which you responded to my post. Thank you again for your time and consideration in your response. -Sunny. Thank you very much for the information, I will consider it. Excellent web site. Jackie San Diego, CA Dr. Mitnick, Just want to say thank you so very much for your quick response and very informative reply!

After reading what you had to say, I called the doctor's office and was able to get in and see him the same day as my injury. Toe was x-rayed and luckily, it is not broken or fractured. Very badly bruised and will probably lose the toe nail. And although my toe and toe nail are still very black and blue and very sore, they ARE both starting to feel a little better. So again, thank you! I am so very happy that I came across your website. The service you provide is outstanding and immeasurable! Rivi, Albany, NY Thank you so much for all of your advice. In searching the web for people dealing with this same issue i can tell you that you are a Knight In shining Armor! If I lived in Jersey I would gladly be your Spokesperson. Hopefully next time you hear from me it will be good news. God Bless, Jill S. location unknown THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FOR YOUR TIME AND EFFORTS, YOU ARE SO VERY APPRECIATED. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO. Jackie thanks again, this site is very helpful. mark Boston, MA Like others have stated...This site is amazing and I am so thankful that it was created.

....Keep up what your doing. Your a life saver. Michelle Colorado Thanks again for the information provided on your site. It's easy for non-medical folk to understand your writing, and helps provide better communication between patient and doctor. annielou by: Anonymous This is the best site for foot problem info. Thank you for this information. This description fits my pain and inflammation behind my 2nd toe perfectly. by: Max location unknown Again, I really appreciate that you responded to my inquiry, and that your mention of Parkinson's helped me to find my way to a diagnosis of this difficult to diagnose disease. Most patients see on average 16 doctors before they are diagnosed. I hope that you can help other people that ask for your expertise in the future. Barb D. Canada I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!! I have had a fusion in my rt foot and am finally getting a little bit better...... Bonnie location unknown Again, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to answer my question....your an angel! Nancie Thank you for your response. You have provided some great insight (to my question)....

Julie location unknown Thank-you so very much for responding so quickly and in such detail to my question!! I will give my surgeon a call today!! This website is terrific!!!! Thank-you again! Renae North Carolina Many Thanks Dr Marc! Thank you for your response. It sounds like a good plan to me. He did not cut the wart out first ... KG location unknown Thanks again doc for having this website and we STILL need qualified Podiatrists in beautiful sunny Tampa Bay (Bradenton) Florida. Bessie Mae Florida Dear Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so very much for taking your time to answer my question. You have greatly relieved my anxiety related to the continual tingly I feel in my feet. I will share your response with my podiatrist next week. God bless you for having this question and answer page on your website! Most gratefully, Lynne T. Your webpage is excellent, I commend you on sharing your knowledge to the public. Robert New Jersey Thank you. you were more detailed than what others have told me they finally called from the last xrays and my son is now in a cast for 2 weeks he did have a fracture that was not noticeable.

a mom location unknown I have read your website and I have to admit that I am amazed at all the information that is on here. I have learned more than the three years I have been going to several doctors that I have seen!! Melody Thank you so much Doc for a quick and thorough response! Rustam Bellevue, WA I cannot thank you enough for your response, opinion, and suggestions! I want you to know how much it means to me, and I'm sure everyone else who has ever asked you a question! I feel like you're a lifesaver and have empowered me to take a stronger role and stand up for myself and my feet! Jodi

Question: A plantar wart is more commonly known as a what?
Answer: Verruca