the Difference: Corns vs. Warts on Your Foot

Corn or wart?

After completing my military service, I developed a growth on the area between my right little toe and the fourth toe.
It gradually increased in size, initially appearing as a semicircular shape (approximately 0.6 cm).
Later, a protrusion formed on the upper part of the circle, resembling a corn.
However, I noticed some small black dots inside it, and I'm uncertain about it.
A few days ago, I removed the center and indeed found some small black fibers.
Do corns have blood vessels? Note: It hurts more when pressed than when squeezed, but the difference isn't significant, and I’m reluctant to see a doctor.

Dàxuéshēng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/23

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Not really wanting to see a doctor?

Reply Date: 2019/10/23

More Info

When it comes to foot health, distinguishing between corns and warts is crucial for appropriate treatment and management. Both conditions can cause discomfort and may appear similar, but they have different causes, characteristics, and treatment approaches.

Corns are thickened areas of skin that develop in response to pressure or friction. They are typically found on the tops or sides of toes and are often round with a hard center surrounded by inflamed skin. Corns can be painful, especially when pressure is applied, such as when wearing tight shoes. They are usually caused by ill-fitting footwear, repetitive friction, or abnormal foot mechanics. Treatment often involves reducing pressure on the affected area, using protective pads, and in some cases, removing the corn through debridement by a healthcare professional.

Warts, on the other hand, are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can appear anywhere on the body, including the feet. Plantar warts, which occur on the soles of the feet, can be particularly painful due to the pressure of walking. They often have a rough surface and may contain small black dots, which are tiny blood vessels. Unlike corns, warts can spread through direct contact with the virus, and they may not respond to the same treatments as corns. Common treatments for warts include topical treatments containing salicylic acid, cryotherapy (freezing), or laser therapy.

In your case, the growth on your right foot near the little toe that started as a half-circle and developed a protrusion, along with the presence of small black dots, raises the possibility of it being a wart rather than a corn. The fact that you mentioned it is more painful when pressed rather than squeezed could also suggest that it is a wart, as warts often have a more pronounced pain response due to their viral nature and the way they affect the surrounding tissue.

It is important to note that self-diagnosing and treating foot conditions can sometimes lead to complications or mismanagement. While it may be tempting to avoid seeing a doctor, especially if the discomfort is manageable, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable. A podiatrist or dermatologist can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend the most effective treatment options. They can also ensure that the growth is not something more serious, such as a different type of skin lesion or infection.

In summary, while corns and warts can appear similar, they have distinct characteristics and causes. Given your description, it would be prudent to seek professional evaluation to determine the exact nature of the growth on your foot. Early intervention can prevent further complications and ensure that you receive the appropriate care for your foot health.

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