Corns and Calluses

Question 1

What are the symptoms of calluses?

Answer 1

White or yellowish hyperkeratinised/ thickened areas of skin which occur on pressure areas such as the top of toes and along the side of feet (i.e., over bony prominences of the feet).

Question 2

What are the symptoms of corns?

Answer 2

Hard and circular- shaped with a polished or central translucent core.

Question 3

How can calluses and corns be differentiated from warts?

Answer 3

Calluses and corns do not have “black dots/spots” but rather expose layers of white keratin when pared.

Question 4

Do corns and calluses require a counselling room?

Answer 4

No

Question 5

What are 4 red flags for referral with corns and calluses?

Answer 5

1. Discomfort/difficulty walking
2. Impaired peripheral circulation i.e., diabetes
3. Soft corns are present (between webs of toes)
4. OTC treatment failure.

Question 6

What is the mainstay of treatment for calluses and corns?

Answer 6

Removal of the precipitating factors will result in resolution of the problem. Therefore, preventative measures should form the mainstay of treatment.

Question 7

Do corns and calluses have a PSA self-care card?

Answer 7

No

Question 8

What is the preferred over-the-counter treatment option for corns and calluses?

Answer 8

Scholl® Corn Removal Pad with Medicated disc (Salicylic Acid 40% w/w)

Question 9

What are the directions for Scholl® Corn Removal Pad with Medicated Disc (Salicylic Acid 40% w/w) in corns and calluses?

Answer 9

Adults > 16 years: Feet should be clean and dry. Remove disc and pad from backing paper. Place adhesive surface of medicated disc firmly over centre of corn and cover with pad. Repeat treatment daily until corn is completely removed.

Question 10

What is 1 non-preferred over-the-counter option for corns and calluses and why?

Answer 10

Duofilm liquid: does not provide padding

Question 11

Is Scholl® Corn Removal Pad with Medicated Disc (Salicylic Acid 40% w/w) safe in pregnancy?

Answer 11

Yes

Question 12

Is Scholl® Corn Removal Pad with Medicated Disc (Salicylic Acid 40% w/w) safe in breastfeeding?

Answer 12

Yes

Question 13

What is the age range for Scholl® Corn Removal Pad with Medicated Disc (Salicylic Acid 40% w/w)?

Answer 13

Safe in adults over 16 years

Question 14

What group of patients is ® Corn Removal Pad with Medicated Disc (Salicylic Acid 40% w/w) unsafe in?

Answer 14

Diabetics

Question 15

What are 3 pieces of non-pharmacological advice for corns and calluses?

Answer 15

1. Correctly fitting shoes are essential to help prevent corn and callus formation.
2. Encourage patients to wear open toed shoes such as thongs or sandals.
3. If pressure and friction persist when correctly fitted shoes are worn, then patients can obtain relief by shielding or padding.

Question 16

Where do corns typically occur?

Answer 16

Generally on the tops and sides of the toes.

Question 17

What is a hard corn?

Answer 17

A small patch of thickened, dead skin with a packed centre.

Question 18

How do corns form?

Answer 18

They form due to a combination of friction and pressure against one of the bony prominences of the feet. Inappropriate footwear is frequently the cause.

Question 19

What causes calluses to form?

Answer 19

Formation of calluses is also caused by constant friction and pressure.