Overview

Verrucas, commonly known as plantar warts, are small, rough growths that develop on the soles of the feet due to an infection by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These warts can cause discomfort or pain, especially when located on pressure points of the feet. Though generally harmless, verrucas can persist for months or even years if untreated, and they may spread to other parts of the foot or to other people through direct contact.

What is Verrucas?

Verrucas are caused by certain strains of HPV that infect the top layer of the skin on the feet. The virus enters through tiny cuts or breaks in the skin, leading to the formation of a hard, grainy lesion. Unlike common warts, verrucas tend to grow inward because of the pressure from walking and standing, which can make them painful.

Symptoms

• Small, rough, grainy growths on the soles of the feet
• Pain or tenderness when walking or standing
• Presence of tiny black dots within the wart, which are clotted blood vessels
• Thickened or calloused skin over the lesion
• Interruptions in the normal skin lines of the foot

Causes

• Infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly types 1, 2, 4, 27, and 57
• Walking barefoot in communal wet areas such as swimming pools, gyms, and locker rooms
• Minor skin trauma or cuts on the feet allowing virus entry
• Weakened immune system making it easier for the virus to infect skin

Risk Factors

• Frequent exposure to communal wet areas without footwear
• Having cuts, abrasions, or broken skin on the feet
• Compromised immune system due to illness or medication
• Age, with children and young adults being more susceptible
• Walking barefoot in moist environments

Complications

• Pain and discomfort affecting daily activities such as walking
• Spread of verrucas to other areas on the feet or body
• Transmission to others via direct contact or shared surfaces
• Secondary bacterial infection if the verruca is scratched or damaged

Prevention

• Wear protective footwear in communal wet areas
• Avoid picking or scratching verrucas to prevent spread and infection
• Maintain good foot hygiene by keeping feet clean and dry
• Avoid sharing towels, socks, or shoes with others
• Support immune health with a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle

Treatment Options in Korea

South Korea offers several effective treatment methods for verrucas:

• Topical treatments – Salicylic acid and other keratolytic agents to peel away infected skin gradually
• Cryotherapy – Application of liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy the wart tissue
• Laser therapy – Targeted laser treatment to remove stubborn verrucas
• Immunotherapy – Techniques to stimulate the immune system to fight HPV infection
• Surgical removal – Minor procedures under local anesthesia for resistant cases
• Advanced diagnostics – Use of dermoscopy and biopsy in specialized clinics to confirm diagnosis
• Patient education and follow-up – Guidance to prevent recurrence and maintain foot health