What are Verrucae Pedis?
Verrucae pedis, commonly known as plantar warts, are small growths that usually develop on the heels or other weight-bearing areas of the feet. These warts are caused by specific strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus infects the top layer of the skin, known as the epidermis, specifically targeting the basal layer, which is the innermost layer. This layer contains the keratinocytes, which are the primary cells that make up the epidermis.
The virus causes these cells (keratinocytes) to grow abnormally, forming the wart. One of the challenges in treating plantar warts is that the virus hides in this deeper part of the skin, making it harder for the body’s immune system to detect and fight off. The immune system has difficulty reaching the virus because this area doesn’t have as many blood vessels and immune cells.
Additionally, a thick layer of hard skin (like a callus) often forms over the wart, further protecting the virus from the immune system and treatments. This tough outer layer can make it difficult for treatments to penetrate and reach the infected area, which is why plantar warts can be stubborn and may require multiple treatments to remove.
Why Do I Have Warts on My Feet?
Warts are more common than you might think, and anyone can get them. However, certain factors can increase your risk:
- Walking Barefoot: Especially in communal areas like pools and gyms. The virus thrives in warm, moist environments, making places like public showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms prime spots for infection.
- Weakened Immune System: This can make it easier for the virus to take hold.
- Skin Injuries: Cuts, scrapes, or cracks in the skin provide an entry point for the virus.
How Can a Podiatrist Help?
If you’ve tried over-the-counter treatments without success or if your warts are causing discomfort, it’s time to visit a podiatrist. There are a few forms of treatment we can perform to help physically remove the viral tissue and help stimulate your immune response to help eradicate the virus.
Physical Treatments for Verrucae Pedis
- Physical Debridement: This involves carefully removing the thickened, dead skin over the wart, as well as the wart tissue. The more wart tissue we can physically remove to more likely it will be eradicated. It can also help make other treatments more effective.
- Chemical Treatment: We can apply medical-grade treatments like salicylic acid or silver nitrate to the wart. These chemicals help to peel away the infected skin gradually and stimulate your immune system to fight the virus.
- Immune System Support: We also encourage patients to seek advice on boosting their immune system. A stronger immune response can help your body fight off the virus more effectively and prevent future warts from forming.
These treatments, combined with professional guidance and care, can help you effectively manage and eliminate plantar warts.
When to Seek Professional Help
- The wart is painful, especially when walking or standing.
- It is rapidly growing or changing in appearance.
- You’ve tried home treatments without success.
- You have diabetes (as even minor foot issues can lead to complications).
Why Seek Professional Help?
Warts can be persistent and sometimes resistant to treatment. As podiatrists, we are trained to provide professional-grade treatments that can be more effective than over-the-counter options. We can also ensure that the wart is properly diagnosed, because sometimes what you think is a wart may actually be a nasty corn….knowing what is actually happening on the bottom of your feet can give you peace of mind and confidence that it will be treated correctly.
