Plantar Warts

Plantar warts, also known as verrucae warts, are noncancerous skin growths on the soles of the feet, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV triggers excessive multiplication of keratinocytes, the predominant cell type in the outer layer of the skin, leading to the thick, tough texture of the wart. Typically, the virus enters through small cuts or breaks in the skin of the foot, often where pressure is constant due to walking or standing, which also pushes the wart inward. These lesions may appear as a small, grainy bump and can have a rough surface; sometimes a hard layer of skin (callus) over a well-defined "spot" on the skin, where the wart has grown inward. Pain or discomfort when walking can occur if the location of the wart is on a pressure point of the foot.

Plantar warts can be differentiated from other types of warts by their location and growth pattern. They are usually flat due to the pressure exerted on them and might have tiny black dots, which are clotted blood vessels. While they can resolve on their own, stubborn or painful plantar warts might require treatment. Options include topical salicylic acid, cryotherapy, laser treatment, immunotherapy, or minor surgery. Preventative measures include avoiding direct contact with warts, keeping feet dry, and wearing protective shoes in communal areas.