Plantar warts, or plantar papillomas, are benign lesions caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) that manifest in the epithelial layer of the skin. They are among the 10 most frequent dermatoses (skin diseases).
They affect approximately 10% of the population, with a higher prevalence in children, up to 20%, peaking between 12 and 16 years of age. They are also highly prevalent in immunocompromised patients.
What types of papillomas are there?
Within HPV we know of 100 subtypes. In the foot we frequently find:
- Common warts (type 2 and 4).
- Flat warts (type 3, 10 and 28).
- Deep palmoplantar warts (type 1)
- Cystic warts (type 60)
- Mosaic warts
What symptoms does the patient present?
Generally they are asymptomatic, but depending on their location they can be painful and/or alter ambulation.
On examination of the skin we find warty papules, affecting the normal pattern of dermatoglyphs with thrombosed capillaries and sometimes covered with hyperkeratosis.
In other words, it presents as a raised lesion of warty appearance with black dots, with or without superficial hardness, affecting the fingerprint pattern.
Its dimensions vary from 1 mm to several centimeters.
How do papillomas occur on the foot?
The appearance of this lesion is associated with direct HPV contact.
In immunocompromised patients, patients with strong emotional stress and pediatric patients the chances of getting infected with HPV are increased.
Can they be prevented?
Yes, they can be prevented. Avoid direct contact in areas where HPV is present, such as public bathrooms and swimming pools. To do so, we will avoid walking barefoot in these areas. If we have not frequented these types of places and yet we have been infected, other causes such as emotional stress or immunosuppression such as, for example, recent intake of drugs that cause such a cause will be assessed.
In the case of having been infected by HPV, it is advisable not to exchange the socks on the side if they have been used, as this would help the spread of HPV to the healthy foot.
If we have people living with us at home, it is advisable to disinfect surfaces where they have walked barefoot.
How can they be treated?
First of all, this type of lesions must be diagnosed by a qualified professional, podiatrist, doctor, dermatologist.
Once diagnosed, in our podiatry offices, we will assess the best individualized treatment for each patient.
Treatments include the use of acids, cryotherapy, multipuncture, laser, and if very resistant, surgery.