Plantar Warts
Warts are outgrowths on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) entering through small cuts or breaks in the skin.
They can appear on all parts of the body, but Dr. Castelein focuses on those found on the feet known as plantar warts. Typically, they are found on the balls and heels of the feet. Many times, pain or tenderness is noticed when walking or standing due to a buildup of the virus in the skin.
Dr. Castelein will easily diagnose the presence of a plantar wart by a clinical examination or by biopsy as necessary.
Schedule an appointment today with Dr. Bryant Castelein, DPM – Podiatry Specialist
Plantar Wart Treatment
Some plantar warts resolve naturally, but may take several months or even years to do so. Dr. Castelein offers various conservative treatment methods for plantar warts which aid in removing the wart and the underlying virus. If the warts are not responding to treatment or recur after treatment, Dr. Castelein may remove them surgically.
Salicylic Acid:
Dr. Castelein may utilize a topical medication containing salicylic acid. This treatment works by removing the wart a layer at a time. This medication may also increase your immune response and ability to fight the wart. This treatment is performed in our office and allows people to return to their normal activities. Dr. Castelein will recommend office visits to treat the wart every two to three weeks depending upon the progress made.
Cantharidin:
Another option for wart treatment involves strategic blistering of the wart. Dr. Castelein will apply the topical medication to the wart in a controlled spot, triggering a blister to form under the skin.This treatment works to remove multiple layers of the wart through a mild blister. Eventually, the wart becomes detached and will fall off. This treatment is performed in our office and allows immediate results. Dr. Castelein will typically recommend office visits every two or three weeks to remove dead skin and wart until the area is resolved.
Surgical Excision of Plantar Warts:
Dr. Castelein may recommend surgery when conservative treatments have failed or when the pain experienced or the the location of the wart interferes with daily activities. Dr. Castelein will ensure the area is numb before separating the affected tissue from the healthy tissue surrounding the wart. Next, specific tools are used to scoop out the entire wart and the area is dressed for optimum healing. A short recovery period is needed to allow for healthy skin to replace the wart area.
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