Excerpt from Warts, Plantar

Synonyms, Key Words, and Related Terms: verruca plantaris, human papillomavirus, HPV, hyperkeratotic lesions, heel, ball of the foot, mosaic warts, acanthotic epidermis, papillomatosis, parakeratosis, public showers, keratoses, lichen planus, molluscum contagiosum, corns, calluses, black heel, keratinolytic medications, cryotherapy, imiquimod

Please click here to view the full topic text: Warts, Plantar

Background: Plantar warts are hyperkeratotic lesions on the plantar surface. They tend to develop over areas of pressure such as the heel and ball of the foot. Plantar warts are often endophytic (ie, they grow into the deeper layers of skin because of pressure). Although they are generally self-limited, plantar warts should be treated to lessen symptomatology, decrease duration, and reduce transmission.

Pathophysiology: Human papillomavirus (HPV), usually of type 1, 2, or 4, causes plantar warts. HPV attacks the epidermal layers through direct contact. See Human Papillomavirus.

Frequency:

In the US: Plantar warts are widespread; 7-10% of the population have warts.

Mortality/Morbidity:

Plantar warts may cause pain, particularly when walking.

They may spread to other sites but not to histologically dissimilar areas (ie, plantar warts do not spread to genitalia).

Most resolve spontaneously.

Sex: Plantar warts affect females slightly more often than males.

Age: Plantar warts may occur at any age, although they are more common in children and teenagers.