What is a Verruca?

A small skin lesion caused by a virus found on the bottom of the foot or toes, which closely resembles, and is often confused with, a corn. Its size is usually under 1cm in diameter but can grow larger and can also occur in clusters (mosaic warts). Verrucae pedis are caused by the human papilloma virus. This is a slow growing virus, found in most of our environments and which gain entry into the body through a break in the skin, such as a scratch or cut. Children are the most susceptible to verrucae infection because their immune system is not fully developed. Verrucae are also easily spread from person to person in places such as showers, around swimming pools, in gyms, locker rooms, saunas and rough wet surfaces where skin and infected particles are easily removed.

What do we do about it?

We have a number of choices for treating verrucae pedis. The best treatment depends on things such as the size, location and duration of the verrucae. To completely remove the verrucae in one visit is a good option. This involves local anaesthetic to numb the area to remove the verrucae whole. The healing time is 2-4 weeks, depending on its size. Not all verrucae can be removed surgically and therefore we will need to see you prior to the procedure and discuss all options as well as confirmation it really is a verrucae.