Differentiation between Corns and Plantar Warts

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on September 02, 2024
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Corns and plantar warts are two different skin conditions, although both often occur on the feet, they have significant differences. First, corns and plantar warts differ in contagion and quantity. Generally, corns appear singly and are not contagious; while plantar warts often appear in larger numbers and are highly contagious. Moreover, corns are usually caused by pressure or friction on the feet, whereas plantar warts are caused by a viral infection of the skin on the soles of the feet.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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What causes corns on the soles of the feet?

Corns are mostly caused by the prolonged and repeated friction and compression of a foreign object that has entered the skin, resulting in a hyperproliferative lesion. They are generally small and can be completely treated with common corn ointments. However, if a corn has been present for a long time and has grown larger, it is recommended to seek treatment at a formal hospital's dermatology department using the method of liquid nitrogen freezing, which usually resolves the issue in one or two sessions. Some corns can become larger and may be painful or show signs of inflammation and infection. In such cases, it is advisable to visit a surgical or dermatology department for a minor minimally invasive surgery to completely remove it. When wearing shoes, it is essential to choose loose and soft-soled footwear, and avoid walking barefoot on surfaces to prevent foreign objects from entering and causing the recurrence of corns.

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Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
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The difference between a corn and a callus.

Corn and calluses actually have fundamental differences. A corn is a type of common wart, which is essentially a viral infection. This type of infection is somewhat similar to plantar warts, usually occurring on the sole of the foot. Although both conditions are more likely to occur on the sole, common warts typically manifest as protruding bumps on the surface, whereas calluses are not protruding and the skin in the affected area is relatively smooth. Thus, one can determine the type of condition based on these surface appearances. However, both conditions share commonalities such as being caused by viral infections. Additionally, common warts generally have a darker color, while calluses are more translucent.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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What will a worsening corn turn into?

Severe deterioration of corns usually affects walking. When corns appear, treatment options include using corn ointment, choosing carbon dioxide laser treatment, or cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen. Corns mainly result from prolonged compression and friction of the soft tissues of the sole, leading to this skin condition and causing localized pain. If corns develop, it is important to rest and avoid standing or walking for long periods. Also, avoid wearing shoes with very hard soles to prevent the recurrence of corns. When dealing with corns, soaking the feet in warm water to promote blood circulation and prevent the thickening of the skin can be beneficial. Diet-wise, it is advisable to choose low-fat foods.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Corns are treated in which department?

Corn is a relatively common condition. If you suffer from corns, it is recommended to consult dermatology or surgery for treatment. Corns are mainly caused by prolonged standing, or by wearing shoes that do not fit properly or are too tight. They usually appear individually. It is advised to seek treatment promptly at the dermatology or surgery department of a hospital. The primary treatment involves topical medications, but methods like laser or cryotherapy can also be employed.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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What is the difference between a viral wart and a corn?

Viral warts and corns, though similar in appearance, have significant differences. In terms of cause, viral warts are caused by an infection of the human papillomavirus and are contagious. Corns, on the other hand, are not contagious and are caused by long-term pressure, friction, or tight shoes. In terms of treatment, corns can often be cured through laser treatment or medication. Viral warts need to be treated with antiviral medications, along with physical treatment methods such as cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor)