What are plantar warts?
Plantar warts (also known as papillomas or verrucas) are growths that appear on the soles of the feet, often causing discomfort or pain. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), specifically certain strains of HPV that infect the skin. This virus enters the body through small cuts or breaks in the skin, which allows it to infect the outer layer of the skin on the feet.
HPV thrives in warm, moist environments, making public areas like swimming pools, showers, and locker rooms common places for people to contract the virus. The virus typically spreads through direct contact with an infected surface or person.
While anyone can develop plantar warts, they are more common in children, individuals with weakened immune systems, and those who frequently walk barefoot in public places. The wart itself forms as a reaction to the virus causing the skin to grow thicker in response to irritation.
Symptoms of plantar warts include small, rough growths with a hard surface, often with black dots in the centre, which are small blood vessels. These warts can sometimes be painful, especially when pressure is applied, such as when walking or standing. Though plantar warts are generally harmless, they can be bothersome and may require treatment to remove them.
Treatment:
Cantherone Plus is a topical solution commonly used to treat warts, including plantar warts, by applying it directly to the affected area. The solution contains cantharidin, a substance derived from the blister beetle and is often combined with other agents to enhance its effectiveness. Cantharidin works by causing a blister to form beneath the wart, which eventually lifts the wart off the skin. This process helps to break down the wart tissue, allowing the body’s immune system to remove the wart more effectively.
The treatment is applied by a podiatrist, who carefully applies the solution to the wart and covers it with a waterproof dressing. After a few hours, the Cantherone is washed off, and then over the next 12-48 hours a blister will develop between the wart and the skin. The wart may come away from the skin itself but usually requires sharp debridement from your podiatrist. The treatment may require multiple applications, depending on the size and type of the wart.
Cantherone Plus is particularly effective for treating plantar warts. It is considered safe when used under podiatrist’s supervision, but potential side effects include blistering, pain, and mild irritation at the treatment site. It’s important to follow the podiatrist’s instructions to avoid complications.
If you or someone you know has a plantar wart, book your appointment with Kirrilee to discuss your suitability for Cantherone plus today.
