What are possible treatments for long-standing plantar warts that have not responded to treatment after 6 months, and how much does it cost? (photo)

Thank you for the question. Callus is due to hardening of the skin at sites of pressure and friction. The skin hardens and thickens in response to constant friction to the area. Viral warts are due to an infection by the HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) virus. When this appears on the feet, it is called a plantar wart. One way of differentiating between a wart and callus is to look for the presence of red dots, which are tiny blood vessels, at the base of the lesion. If this is seen, it favours the diagnosis of a viral wart. Loss of the overlying skin lines also favours a viral wart.

Thanks for the question. First, it is important to confirm the diagnosis of a viral wart. Callosities of the foot can also present with thickened skin on the soles and can look very much like a viral wart. Salicylic acid can be used to treat viral warts. If the wart is persistent after 2 to 3 months of treatment or progressing in size, you can consider alternative treatments. Cryotherapy or freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen is an alternative treatment that is commonly used to treat viral warts. Usually, a few sessions spaced weekly or fortnightly will be required.