Plantar Warts
Plantar Warts are a common disorder, caused by a viral infection, namely, the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Warts are more common on the bottom of the feet in areas of pressure. Our bodies fight off the HPV, and each person's immune system responds differently. There are multiple ways to treat plantar warts including excision (surgical removal) and non-surgical treatments.
Canthacur
Beetle Juice!
Cantharidin is a substance derived from the blister beetle Cantharis vesicatoria, aka the Spanish Fly.
How does it work?
The normal action of these medications is to form a blister underneath the wart. This occurs within 24 hours of application. The blister formation kills the wart by cutting off its blood supply. Occasionally, there may be some blood in the blister fluid, which is normal. The blister may also be painful or itchy. Your physician will recommend appropriate medication.
What to expect:
As a general rule, you can expect the following:
4 hours: Mild discomfort may occur; control with bathing and medication
24 hours: Blistering usually occurs
If a blister forms, do not break the blister. Wash it daily with soap and water. Pat dry, and cover it with a Band-Aid.
If the blister breaks, wash the area daily with soap and water. Apply over the counter antibiotic cream, such as Neosporin and cover the area with a Band-Aid.
24 hours - 4 days: Crusted blisters fall off leaving superficial erosions. Medication may be needed to control nighttime itching
7 days: Healed with temporary residual inflammation/redness.
Please keep your bandage clean and dry until the next morning. Avoid using your fingers to pick at the treated area, as warts are contagious and can spread to your fingers. Any resistant lesions will be re-treated by your physician at your next appointment.
Liquid Nitrogen
What to expect:
As a general rule, you can expect the following:
You do not have to keep a bandage on the treated area, as long as it is not painful or draining.
A blister may form where the liquid nitrogen was applied and may be clear or filled with blood. Sometimes, a crust of scab may form instead.
If a blister forms, do not break the blister. Wash it daily with soap and water. Pat dry, and cover it with a Band-Aid.
If the blister breaks, wash the area daily with soap and water. Apply over the counter antibiotic cream, such as Neosporin and cover the area with a Band-Aid.
After 4-8 days if a blister has formed, it will break and dry up.
Most warts will need to be treated several times, depending on the size of the war and how well it is responding to treatment.
Zinc
In patients, especially children, with recalcitrant warts, we often recommend adding Zinc into the diet. Zinc helps to boost your immune system, allowing your body to fight off the HPV.