Effective Treatments for Plantar Warts: Tips to Prevent Spread

Q: Effective Treatments for Plantar Warts: Tips to Prevent Spread

Hello： Viral warts can be transmitted through contact, so when you scratch or touch a viral wart, or if you have a wound caused by scratching, it can easily lead to secondary infections, which should be particularly noted. <br>Duofilm, a topical solution, contains salicylic acid

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I have had a viral wart on my toe for over a month, and recently several more have appeared on the same toe.
It itches, and I have touched it with my hands, but I’m not sure why I now have a small wart on each hand.
I would like to know if viral warts should not be touched to avoid spreading them to the hands.
I have been using Salicylic Acid wart treatment recently; does this medication help with treatment? Now that several more warts have appeared on my foot, is there a way to prevent new ones from forming, or how can I effectively treat them? Thank you!

James, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/07/28

Dr. Lin Xinpeng reply Dermatology

Hello: Viral warts can be transmitted through contact, so when you scratch or touch a viral wart, or if you have a wound caused by scratching, it can easily lead to secondary infections, which should be particularly noted.
Duofilm, a topical solution, contains salicylic acid and lactic acid, which effectively dissolve hyperkeratotic tissue, thus providing real relief for your symptoms.
However, I am unsure if you are using it correctly.
Before applying the solution, you should trim the wart slightly to make it level with the surrounding skin to avoid thickened keratin on the wart's surface affecting the efficacy of the treatment.
Be careful not to cut too deeply to prevent bleeding or creating a wound; if there is a wound, applying the solution may cause excessive irritation and unnecessary inflammatory reactions.
Additionally, you may also consider cryotherapy, carbon dioxide laser treatment, or electrosurgery, which can be beneficial for recurrent viral warts.

Reply Date: 2012/07/28

More Info

Plantar warts, also known as verrucae plantaris, are benign growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They typically appear on the soles of the feet and can be quite uncomfortable, especially if they develop in areas that bear weight. The fact that you have noticed multiple warts and that they have spread to your hands suggests that the virus is active and that you may be inadvertently transferring it through touching.
To address your concerns, it is important to understand how plantar warts spread and the effective treatment options available. First and foremost, it is advisable to avoid touching the warts directly. HPV can be transmitted through direct contact with the wart or indirectly through surfaces that have been contaminated, such as floors in communal showers or swimming pools. If you do touch a wart, wash your hands thoroughly afterward to minimize the risk of spreading the virus to other areas of your body or to other people.

Regarding the treatment you mentioned, "史帝富的治疣液" (likely referring to a topical treatment for warts), it is important to note that many over-the-counter treatments contain salicylic acid, which works by gradually peeling away the layers of the wart. This method can be effective, but it often requires consistent application over several weeks. If you have been using it for a month without improvement, it may be time to consult a healthcare professional for alternative treatments.

There are several effective treatments for plantar warts:
1. Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen. This method is commonly used in dermatology and can be very effective, although multiple sessions may be required.

2. Laser Therapy: In cases where warts are resistant to other treatments, laser therapy can be used to destroy the wart tissue. This method is typically more expensive and may require a specialist.

3. Electrosurgery: This technique uses electrical currents to burn off the wart. It is usually performed under local anesthesia.

4. Cantharidin: This is a blistering agent that can be applied by a healthcare provider. It causes the skin under the wart to blister, lifting the wart off the skin.

5. Immunotherapy: This approach involves stimulating the immune system to fight the virus. This can be done through topical agents like imiquimod or through injections.

To prevent the recurrence of plantar warts, consider the following tips:
- Keep your feet dry: Moist environments can promote the growth of warts. Make sure to dry your feet thoroughly after bathing and consider using antifungal powder if you are prone to sweaty feet.

- Avoid walking barefoot in public places: Use sandals or water shoes in communal showers, pools, and locker rooms to reduce the risk of exposure to HPV.

- Do not share personal items: Avoid sharing towels, shoes, or socks with others, as this can facilitate the spread of the virus.

- Maintain good hygiene: Regularly wash your hands and feet, and avoid touching warts on yourself or others.

- Consider vaccination: While the HPV vaccine primarily targets strains associated with cervical cancer, it may provide some protection against other HPV strains.

In conclusion, while plantar warts can be bothersome and persistent, there are effective treatment options available. If over-the-counter treatments are not yielding results, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional who can provide a tailored treatment plan. Additionally, practicing good hygiene and taking preventive measures can help reduce the risk of spreading the virus and developing new warts.

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