A verruca is a common type of skin growth that can appear on the feet. While generally harmless, understanding its characteristics is important for proper identification. This guide aims to provide clear information to help you recognize a verruca and understand when professional guidance might be beneficial.
What is a Verruca
A verruca is a wart that forms on the sole of the foot. It is caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which enters the skin through tiny cracks or abrasions. While infectious and able to spread, they are not harmful. However, they can cause discomfort or pain, especially if located on a weight-bearing area of the foot.
Key Visual Characteristics
Verrucas present with distinct visual features, appearing as small, rough patches of thickened skin resembling a cauliflower-like texture. Their color varies from flesh-colored to white, light brown, or yellow, and they may appear darker on brown and black skin tones. A key sign is the presence of small black dots within the verruca. These dots are not “seeds” but tiny clotted blood vessels or small specks of dry blood, visible due to pressure or friction on the growth. Verrucas are firm to the touch and can be flat or slightly raised, though those on weight-bearing areas of the foot may be pushed inward and appear flatter.
Common Locations
Verrucas develop on specific areas of the body due to exposure and pressure. They are primarily found on the soles of the feet, particularly on weight-bearing areas like the heels and balls of the feet. They are referred to as plantar warts. While less common, verrucas can also appear on the hands and fingers. The location can influence their appearance; for instance, verrucas on the soles of the feet may be flattened and grow inward due to constant pressure from walking.
Distinguishing Verrucas from Other Skin Conditions
Differentiating a verruca from other similar-looking skin conditions like corns or calluses is important for proper management. One key distinction lies in how they cause pain: a verruca is painful when squeezed or pinched from the sides, whereas a corn or callus hurts more with direct pressure. Another indicator is the disruption of skin lines. The natural skin lines (like fingerprints on the foot) will go around a verruca, while they will continue over the surface of a corn or callus.
The presence of small black dots is also an identifying feature of a verruca, which are absent in corns or calluses. These dots, representing clotted blood vessels, can be revealed by gently paring down the surface of the growth. Corns and calluses are areas of thickened skin that develop in response to friction or pressure from ill-fitting footwear, and are not caused by a virus. Unlike verrucas, corns and calluses do not resolve on their own without addressing the underlying pressure.
When to Seek Professional Advice
While verrucas may resolve on their own, there are situations where consulting a healthcare professional is advisable. You should seek professional advice if you are uncertain about whether a growth is a verruca or another skin condition. It is also recommended to see a doctor if the verruca is painful, causes discomfort that affects walking, or if it is bleeding. Rapid growth, changes in appearance, or the spread of multiple verrucas (known as mosaic verrucas) are also reasons to seek evaluation. If you have a compromised immune system, such as due to diabetes or certain medical treatments, professional assessment is important, as self-treatment might not be suitable.