Corns

Symptoms

Corns are usually round, clearly demarcated, and hard thickenings of the skin that occur primarily on the toes over the bones due to excessive keratinization. In the center there is a cone-shaped core of keratin. It is not a skin condition. Corns are primarily an aesthetic problem, but can also lead to pain and inflammation. The so-called soft corns occur between the toes and are painful.

Causes

Corns are caused by repeated local mechanical stress on the skin due to friction and pressure. This leads to a physiologically increased activity of keratinocytes and a resulting protective hyperkeratosis. They are often triggered by inappropriate and too tight shoes, anatomical features and malpositions (e.g. hallux valgus) as well as high physical activity. Because the corn itself presses on skin again, a vicious circle is created.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis can be made based on visual inspection and physical examination. Corns are confused with warts, for example.

Non-drug treatment

  • Removal of the thickening, for example by cutting out in podiatry or medical treatment. Corns should not be cut out by the affected person himself with a knife.
  • File off, for example, with a file or a pumice stone. Preferably after a warm foot bath or shower.
  • Plaster without active ingredient, foam rings or bandages to avoid the pressure and friction.
  • Regular application of a nourishing cream.

Corns that do not cause discomfort do not necessarily need to be treated. However, they can disturb for aesthetic reasons.

Drug treatment

For drug treatment, keratolytics such as salicylic acid, lactic acid and urea are primarily used. These are active ingredients that lead to the dissolution of the cornea. They are applied locally in the form of corn plasters, as corn ointments (e.g. salicylaseline) or as a liquid, for example with a brush or a pen. They should not get on healthy skin. Caution should be exercised in the presence of diabetes, wound healing disorders, vascular diseases, thin skin and skin diseases. For complete precautions, see the drug label.