Infected Callus Near Heel: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

There is a pus-filled corn near the heel, and after the pus drains out, it forms a wound?

Hello Doctor: About two to three weeks ago, I developed a corn approximately 1 cm in size near the edge of my left foot close to the heel, which was somewhat raised.
A few days later, I felt that there was pus inside the corn, and the skin tissue softened.
After squeezing out the pus, it turned into a wound.
A week later, new skin began to grow, which was also hard like a corn and slightly itchy.
I thought the wound had healed and removed the hard skin.
After that, I started to experience skin breakdown, and there were some pus clots, along with a few small black spots beneath the skin tissue.
Currently, the small black spots have almost disappeared, but there is still skin breakdown and pus clots with no signs of improvement.
In the past few days since it turned into a wound, it hasn't been itchy, and there is no pain unless I stand on my toes or pull on it; I basically don't feel much, but the skin breakdown and pus clots seem a bit concerning.
I would like to know what the possible issue could be.
Thank you!

Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/05/14

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

No lesions were observed, making it difficult to determine the issue.
If it is causing significant distress, please seek medical attention promptly.

Reply Date: 2019/05/14

More Info

Infected calluses, particularly those located near the heel, can be a source of discomfort and concern, especially when they become infected. Based on your description, it seems that you have developed a callus that has become infected, leading to the formation of pus and subsequent skin breakdown. Let's break down the potential causes, symptoms, and treatment options for your condition.

Causes of Infected Callus
1. Friction and Pressure: Calluses often form due to repeated friction or pressure on the skin, which is common in areas like the heel. This can be exacerbated by ill-fitting shoes or abnormal foot mechanics.

2. Infection: When a callus becomes soft and filled with pus, it indicates that bacteria have likely entered the area, leading to an infection. This can happen if the callus is damaged or if there is a break in the skin.

3. Underlying Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes or peripheral vascular disease can increase the risk of infections in the feet, as they can impair blood flow and the immune response.

Symptoms of Infected Callus
- Pus Formation: The presence of pus suggests an infection, which may be accompanied by redness and swelling around the area.

- Skin Breakdown: As you described, the callus may break down, leading to open wounds that can further complicate the infection.

- Black Spots: The small black dots you mentioned could be indicative of necrotic tissue or debris within the wound, which may require medical attention.

- Itching or Pain: While you noted that there is minimal pain or itching, these symptoms can vary based on the severity of the infection.

Treatment Options
1. Wound Care: It's essential to keep the area clean and dry. You should gently clean the wound with mild soap and water, and apply a sterile dressing to protect it from further irritation.

2. Antibiotics: If the infection is significant, your healthcare provider may prescribe oral antibiotics to help clear the infection. It's crucial to follow the prescribed course even if symptoms improve.

3. Debridement: In some cases, a healthcare professional may need to remove the infected tissue or callus to promote healing. This should be done in a sterile environment to prevent further infection.

4. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage any discomfort associated with the infection.

5. Footwear Modifications: To prevent recurrence, consider wearing well-fitting shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning. Custom orthotics may also be beneficial if you have foot mechanics that contribute to callus formation.

6. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is essential, especially if you have underlying conditions like diabetes. They can monitor the healing process and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

When to Seek Medical Attention
You should seek medical attention if:
- The infection worsens or does not improve with home care.

- You notice increased redness, swelling, or warmth around the area.

- There is a fever or other systemic symptoms.

- The black spots or pus do not resolve, indicating a possible deeper infection.

In conclusion, while infected calluses can be concerning, they are manageable with appropriate care. It's essential to monitor the situation closely and consult with a healthcare provider for tailored advice and treatment. Keeping the area clean, managing any underlying conditions, and making necessary lifestyle adjustments can significantly aid in recovery and prevent future occurrences.

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