Plantar warts

Plantar warts, also known as verrucas, are small rough skin growths on the soles of the feet caused by infection with human papillomavirus. Most people have a wart at some point, and the virus spreads through close skin contact or contaminated surfaces, more readily when skin is wet or damaged. Verrucas are usually rough and may show tiny black dots under hardened skin; they are more often painful than other warts, and many together can hamper walking or running. Diagnosis rests on skin examination, with a biopsy occasionally used to exclude another growth such as skin cancer. Treatment is offered when warts hurt, recur or bother the person, starting with over-the-counter wart-removal creams, plasters or sprays; stronger medicines, freezing with liquid nitrogen, laser or surgical removal are options for stubborn verrucas. Foot cushions and roomy shoes ease pain, and wearing socks or shoes and covering warts help limit spread.

Seek urgent care for a high fever with a stiff neck, rash, confusion, difficulty breathing, or fever after travel to a malaria area. See a doctor when a fever lasts more than three days, when symptoms return after treatment, or when you may have been exposed to an infection that needs testing. Call the local emergency number for any symptom that is sudden and severe. This page is a reference for healthcare professionals and does not replace an assessment.