WHAT ARE VERRUCAE?

Verrucae are warts that usually occur on the soles of the feet or around the toe area. They are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which is highly contagious through direct person-to-person contact. There are numerous forms of HPV associated with different parts of the body. 15 strains of HPV have been identified on the foot. Verrucae are non-cancerous but can look similar to cancerous foot lesions. HPV thrives in a moist, damp environment such as swimming pools, changing room floors and communal pools.

TREATMENTS AVAILABLE

Generally verrucaes are not treated by the NHS. There are several treatment options depending on patient suitability, the duration of the lesion and its location. Additionally, the virus will become resistant to treatment if left too long. Over the counter medications have their limits and tend to have a better success rate if the virus has been caught very early.

Caustic Acid Treatment: The use of caustic acid treatments that can only be applied by licensed practitioners.

Electro-surgery: The verrucae is excised under local anaesthetic using an electric probe.

Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the verrucae tissue at sub-zero temperatures with liquid nitrogen or nitrous oxide.

Your individual treatment plan will be discussed at the consultation as not all treatments are suitable for everyone.

TESTIMONIAL

" I had suffered with multiple verrucae for many years and had tried several treatments. Ms Matharu advised a hyfrecation (surgical) procedure. After years of hobbling I am now verrucae free. "

- James Baker