Varrucae and Warts

What are Varrucae and Warts?

Verrucas and warts are essentially the same, differing only in physical appearance. They are demarcated areas of thickened skin on the soles of the feet due to a viral infection.

Causes of Varrucas and Warts

The virus, called human papilloma virus (or HPV) invades the skin leading to an abnormal increase in skin reproduction and thus a raised area of thickened skin tissue. In a non weight bearing area the wart will take on a characteristic “cauliflower like” appearance. If the wart is on the bottom of a foot, due to the pressure, the wart takes on a relatively flattened appearance and is called a verruca. The virus is transmitted and spread in a barefoot, communal environment such as in a school changing room.

The appearance and pain associated with a verruca may cause treatment to be considered.

Treatment for Varrucae and Warts

Common treatment options include:

• Cautery: Cutting away infected tissue)
• Salicylic acid: Chemically removal of infected tissue
• Cryotherapy: freezing the infected cells followed by removal of the dead cells

Additional appointments may at times be required.