Is a corn the same as a callus?

Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
Updated on September 14, 2024
00:00
00:00

Skin tags are not corns, as skin tags are a type of common wart caused by a viral infection, often related to local pressure or injury, but the two conditions have different factors. Corns are more likely to be caused by a fungal infection, while skin tags are more likely associated with viral infections. Skin tags are mainly related to issues with the immune system. The appearance of skin tags can also be influenced by external factors such as local pressure, friction, and injury. The treatment methods for these conditions are similar, yet this does not mean they are the same disease. It is necessary to understand the different mechanisms and causes of each condition and then address them with appropriate treatment methods.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
27sec home-news-image

What is a corn like?

Corns are a common skin disease, closely related to prolonged standing or constant friction and compression under the feet. Corns consist of a hyperkeratosis forming a circular or oval, yellowish appearance. They generally cause severe pain once they develop, and prompt treatment is necessary. This can include the use of topical medications or physical therapy methods, such as laser treatment.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
52sec home-news-image

Corns are formed by the thickening of the skin in response to pressure and friction.

Corns are primarily caused by the prolonged and repeated irritation from foreign objects entering the skin, and they are also somewhat related to one’s walking habits or footwear. Once formed, they can be painful, and in severe cases, may lead to pus-filled infections. Typically, corns can be effectively treated with common corn plasters. If the treatment with corn plasters proves ineffective, one can seek cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen at a dermatology department in a standard hospital. In more severe cases, surgical removal may be necessary. Generally, corns can be completely cured using these methods. It is advisable to wear loose-fitting shoes regularly, avoid tight shoes that compress the feet, and not walk barefoot to prevent foreign objects from re-entering the skin and causing a recurrence of the condition. (Use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
33sec home-news-image

How does a corn form?

Corns are a common dermatological disease, mainly caused by friction and compression. They typically appear as small, round, hard lumps that are painful to press with the hand. They often occur on the soles of the feet or toes. Corns are usually caused by wearing shoes that are too tight or by standing for prolonged periods, which irritates the skin of the feet over time. Once corns develop, they must be treated promptly; otherwise, the pain may affect walking or make it impossible to walk.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
53sec home-news-image

How can corns be treated to be eradicated completely?

Corns are growths formed by the entry of foreign bodies into the skin, which become exacerbated by repeated friction and compression. There are many treatments for corns, and the most conventional one involves the application of corn plasters, which can completely cure the condition. Corn plasters are a type of corrosive medication. After local application, they completely erode the corn. However, in some patients where the corn is particularly deep or large, corn plasters may not be able to cure it completely. In such cases, it is advisable to visit a dermatologist at a reputable hospital and opt for liquid nitrogen freezing treatment. Following liquid nitrogen treatment, blisters form locally, and as these blisters peel off and necrotize, the corn also falls off and dies. If these treatments are not effective, one can consult a surgical department for a surgical procedure to completely excise the corn.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
56sec home-news-image

Why do corns keep increasing in number as they grow?

Corns growing in number and size is usually linked to wearing tight shoes and compression. They are also related to localized friction and irritation. Another possibility to consider when corns multiply is an infection caused by human papillomavirus resulting in plantar warts, which are similar in appearance to corns. Plantar warts are somewhat contagious and can also arise when the immune system is weakened. If your corns are increasing in number, it is important to promptly visit a dermatologist at a reputable hospital. Once a clear diagnosis is made, appropriate treatment options may include carbon dioxide laser therapy or cryotherapy using liquid nitrogen. If you are experiencing frequent corns, it is essential to wear loose-fitting shoes with soft soles, minimize walking, and avoid sitting for long periods.