Warts

Warts are tumors or growths of the skin caused by infection with Human Papilloma Virus. More than 70 Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) subtypes are known. Those on the sole of the foot are generally known as "verrucas", or plantar warts. Warts are very common in childhood and are spread by direct contact or autoinoculation. This means if a wart is scratched, the viral particles may be spread to another area of skin. It may take as long as twelve months for the wart to appear. In children, 50% of warts disappear on their own within 6 months, and 90% are gone in 2 years. They tend to be more persistent in adults, lasting 5-7 years, but always go eventually.