VERRUCAE are warts found on the feet. They can occur anywhere on the foot, but are more commonly found on the soles and around the toes. They may appear as small lumps of hard skin, or clusters of larger plaques often with black dots inside them.

What causes them?

Verrucae are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) which can be very contagious. The virus causes excessive amounts of the protein keratin to develop in the top layers of the skin. The virus is acquired by direct contact with an infected individual or from a contaminated area. It thrives in damp environments, like swimming pools, communal showers and gyms. If you have a small abrasion or cut in the skin, it is very easy for the virus to penetrate.

Who gets them?

Verrucae are thought to affect about 10 per cent of the world population. However, this figure rises significantly in children. This is thought to be due to the fact that they are more likely to be in communal areas.

Are they serious?

No. Verrucae are benign, but

they can be uncomfortable, especially if they are located on a weight-bearing area of the foot.

How are they diagnosed?

Most verrucae look like tiny flattened cauliflowers containing black dots. They tend to be more painful when pinched rather than pressed. Verrucae can easily be mistaken for corns, callus, malignant melanoma, and many other conditions, so patients should see their podiatrist or dermatologist for the correct diagnosis.

How are they treated?

Most verrucae are self-limiting and will naturally die. This is usually within a six-month period for children, and up to two years in adults. Therefore, if a verrucae is painless and not spreading, then the best treatment is no treatment.

We should only treat them if they are painful, spreading, or unsightly.

Acid-based treatments are available from most pharmacy’s, but should only be administered under the direction of your podiatrist, dermatologist or general practitioner. Some practitioners will have access to cryo-therapy (freezing treatments using liquid nitrogen or nitrous oxide).

Other treatments involve excisional surgery, laser surgery or electro surgery.

Alternative treatments involve using raw garlic, banana skin and duct tape. Strange as these may sound, they are often the most painless and successful treatments. Before embarking on any form of treatment you should consult your general practitioner.

Angela Davis BSc (Hons) DPodM MChS is a podiatrist with offices in Montego Bay (293-7119), Mandeville (962-2100), Ocho Rios (974-6339), and Savanna-la-Mar (955-3154). She is a member of the Health and Care Professions Council in the United Kingdom.