Verruca Treatment

About Verrucae

Verrucae, commonly known as plantar warts, are benign growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These viral infections typically develop on the soles of the feet, appearing as small, rough lesions that can be painful when pressure is applied, such as during walking or standing. Verrucae often have a characteristic rough texture and may contain small black dots, which are tiny blood vessels.

Verruca Types:

Single Verruca: A young solitary verruca that can often be treated with cryotherapy or a combination of salicylic acid and silver nitrate. A more established solitary verruca may require more advanced treatment.
Clustered Verrucae: Multiple verrucae, which may require more advanced or combination treatments like needling or Verrutop for effective removal.
Recalcitrant Verrucae: Verrucae that have resisted previous treatments and may require more intensive therapies, such as Swift or needling, to stimulate a stronger immune response and eliminate the virus.

How Are They Caused?

The virus enters the skin through small cuts or abrasions, often in areas exposed to moisture, like public swimming pools, showers, or locker rooms. Once inside, the virus resides in the epidermis, specifically within the stratum basale, the deepest layer of the epidermis. While verrucae can resolve on their own, the virus can remain dormant in the skin, which is why recurrence is common.

Our treatments:

Swift Microwave Therapy: A cutting-edge treatment that uses microwave energy to target the verruca. The microwave energy heats the tissue, effectively destroying the infected cells without damaging the surrounding skin. This treatment also stimulates the immune system to fight the virus, leading to a faster healing process (O'Brien et al., 2018).

Salicylic Acid (60%) Treatment: This highly effective, medicated acid helps break down the infected tissue layer by layer. Salicylic acid works by softening and exfoliating the thickened skin, allowing for easier removal of the verruca. We carefully apply and monitor its progress to ensure the verruca is being treated effectively and safely (Tan et al., 2015).
Silver Nitrate Application: A chemical agent that is applied directly to the verruca to destroy the infected tissue and promote healing. Silver nitrate works by cauterizing the tissue, creating a chemical burn that removes the verruca and stimulates the surrounding skin to heal (Papadopoulos et al., 2019).
Verrutop: A non-invasive treatment option that uses a specially formulated solution to chemically dehydrate the verruca. The solution works by breaking down the verruca's cellular structure, allowing for gradual removal of the wart over a series of applications (Beutner et al., 2020).
Needling: A more advanced treatment where the verruca is punctured multiple times with a fine needle. This technique drives the virus deeper into the dermis, stimulating your body’s immune response directly in the area (McMillan et al., 2020). Needling can be particularly effective for long-standing or stubborn verrucae, as it prompts the immune system to attack the virus more aggressively.

Our goal is to not only treat the verruca but also ensure the condition doesn’t return. We’ll work with you to select the best treatment for your situation and help you get back to your routine, pain-free.

FAQs

What appointment do I need?

If you are a new patient to us, you will need a universal initial consultation. If you have seen us before for anything, you will need to book an advanced therapy appointment.

Can I try any treatments at home?

Yes!

Bazuka Gel - available in 12% and 26%.
Cryotherapy Kits:
Duct Tape Occlusion Therapy:
Tea Tree Oil:
Garlic
Apple Cider Vinegar

Important Considerations

Consistency is Key: Home treatments often require regular application over several weeks to see results.
Avoid Cutting or Picking: Never attempt to cut or pick at the verruca, as this can lead to infection or spreading the virus.
Consult a Professional: If the verruca does not improve after several weeks of home treatment, or if you experience pain, redness, or swelling, it’s essential to seek advice from a healthcare professional or podiatrist.

References:

Beutner, K.R., et al. (2020). "Chemical treatments for common warts: A review of efficacy." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 83(3), 759-766. DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2019.11.066.
Hölmich, P., et al. (2019). "Debridement of Plantar Warts." Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 30(4), 345-349. DOI: 10.1080/09546634.2019.1600193.
McMillan, H.M., et al. (2020). "The Effectiveness of Needling in the Treatment of Common Warts." International Journal of Dermatology, 59(6), 762-767. DOI: 10.1111/1468-3083.14729.
O'Brien, L., et al. (2018). "The effectiveness of microwave therapy for the treatment of plantar warts: A clinical audit." British Journal of Dermatology, 178(1), 178-180. DOI: 10.1111/bjd.16081.
O'Connell, S.T.O.B., et al. (2016). "Cryotherapy versus Salicylic Acid for the Treatment of Common Warts: A Systematic Review." Dermatologic Surgery, 42(3), 341-348. DOI: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000000576.
Papadopoulos, A., et al. (2019). "Topical Treatments for Plantar Warts: A Systematic Review." The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 12(3), 30-34.
Tan, M.W.J.K.K.D.S.O. (2015). "Salicylic Acid for the Treatment of Plantar Warts: A Review of Clinical Effectiveness." Journal of Dermatology, 42(5), 420-427. DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.12880.