Recovery from Plantar Warts: Is It Normal?

Plantar wart recovery status?

Hello Doctor: After undergoing cryotherapy, my physician mentioned towards the end of this year's winter break that my plantar warts have been treated sufficiently, and I could monitor them myself without needing weekly follow-ups.
After a semester, the wound from the plantar warts no longer has any raised or depressed lesions, but instead, there is a thick callus in the area of the original wound.
The callus feels different from the surrounding normal skin, and it regenerates after being removed.
Is this a normal part of recovery, or does it indicate that the plantar warts were not completely cleared? Thank you.

Tongxue, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/23

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Calluses and viral warts are different conditions.
Warts require active treatment, while calluses do not necessarily need it.
It is recommended that you consult your original treating physician for a follow-up evaluation.

Reply Date: 2023/08/23

More Info

When it comes to the recovery process after treatment for plantar warts, particularly following cryotherapy, it is essential to understand the typical healing trajectory and the body's response to such treatments. Your experience of having a thick callus (corn) develop in the area where the wart was treated is not uncommon and can be considered a normal part of the healing process.

Plantar warts, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), often present as rough, raised lesions on the soles of the feet. Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen, is a common treatment method. After the treatment, it is expected that the wart will eventually slough off, and the skin will begin to heal. However, during this healing phase, the body may respond by forming a callus over the treated area. This callus is a protective mechanism, as the skin thickens to shield the underlying tissues from pressure and friction, especially in weight-bearing areas like the soles of the feet.

The presence of a callus can be a sign that the skin is healing, but it is crucial to monitor the area for any signs of complications. If the callus is painful, shows signs of infection (such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge), or if you notice any changes in the texture or color of the skin that concern you, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can assess whether the wart was completely eradicated or if further treatment is necessary.

In terms of the callus itself, it is not unusual for it to recur after being removed. The skin may continue to thicken in response to pressure or irritation. If the callus becomes bothersome, there are various methods to manage it, including regular exfoliation, the use of over-the-counter treatments designed for callus removal, or professional treatments from a podiatrist.

Additionally, it is essential to maintain proper foot hygiene and to protect the area from excessive pressure or friction, which can exacerbate callus formation. Wearing well-fitting shoes and using protective pads can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further irritation.

In summary, the development of a callus after cryotherapy for plantar warts is a normal part of the healing process. However, ongoing monitoring of the area is crucial to ensure that the wart has been adequately treated and that no complications arise. If you have any concerns about the healing process or the appearance of the skin, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

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