Warts: Recurrence Risks and Shoe Hygiene After Treatment

Regarding warts?

I have had warts (on the sole of my foot) for several months, and the number has remained at two without spreading.
I later sought treatment, and visually, they appear to be completely healed.
Is there still a possibility of recurrence or spreading? Do I need to discard the shoes and socks I wore previously? If so, is it because the virus can remain on the shoes and socks?

Coco, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/12/18

Dr. Li Yufen reply Dermatology

Hello, thank you for your inquiry.
I would like to address your question and provide the following advice: Warts are an infection caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
The contagiousness is not very strong; typically, the virus takes advantage of minor skin injuries.
If there are remnants of the virus in previously infected areas, there is a possibility of recurrence.
You can continue to monitor the situation, and if you notice any signs of recurrence, seek treatment promptly.
Lastly, I wish you peace and happiness.

Reply Date: 2011/12/18

More Info

Warts, particularly plantar warts, are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can be quite persistent. Even after treatment, there is a possibility of recurrence due to several factors, including the nature of the virus, the immune response of the individual, and environmental conditions.
Firstly, it is important to understand that while warts can be effectively treated, the HPV that caused them may still be present in the skin, even if the visible warts have disappeared. This means that there is a risk of recurrence, especially if the immune system is not able to completely eliminate the virus. Factors that can contribute to recurrence include a weakened immune system, skin trauma, or exposure to the virus in communal areas such as swimming pools or locker rooms.

Regarding your question about footwear hygiene, it is indeed advisable to take precautions with shoes and socks that were worn during the time you had warts. HPV can survive on surfaces, including the insides of shoes and socks, for a period of time. While the risk of transmission from shoes is lower compared to direct skin-to-skin contact, it is still a possibility. Therefore, if you want to minimize the risk of recurrence, it is a good practice to either thoroughly disinfect your shoes or consider replacing them, especially if they were worn frequently during the time you had the warts.

To disinfect shoes, you can use a solution of bleach and water (following appropriate dilution guidelines), or other antiviral disinfectants. Make sure to let them dry completely before wearing them again. For socks, washing them in hot water and drying them on high heat can help eliminate any residual virus.

In addition to shoe hygiene, maintaining good foot hygiene is crucial. This includes keeping your feet clean and dry, avoiding walking barefoot in public areas, and using antifungal powders if you are prone to moisture. If you notice any new growths or changes in your skin, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management.

In summary, while the visible warts may have been treated successfully, there is still a risk of recurrence due to the nature of HPV. Taking precautions with shoes and socks, along with maintaining good foot hygiene, can help reduce this risk. If you have any concerns about recurrence or new growths, seeking advice from a healthcare provider is always a good step.

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