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Callosities and corns are caused by pressure and friction resulting from faulty weight bearing, orthopedic deformities, improperly fitting shoes, neuropathies
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Tenderness on pressure and "after-pain" are the only symptoms
The hyperkeratotic well-localized overgrowths always occur at pressure points
Dermatoglyphics (fingerprint lines) are preserved over the surface (not so in warts)
On paring, a glassy core is found (differentiating them from plantar warts, which have multiple capillary bleeding points or black dots when pared)
A soft corn often occurs laterally on the proximal portion of the fourth toe as a result of pressure against the bony structure of the interphalangeal joint of the fifth toe
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Treatment consists of correcting mechanical abnormalities that cause friction and pressure
Callosities may be removed by careful paring of the callus after a warm-water soak or with keratolytic agents as found in various brands of corn pads
Plantar hyperkeratosis of the heels can be treated successfully using 20% urea (Ureacin 20) or 12% lactic acid (Amlactin) nightly and a pumice stone after soaking in water
Callosities on diabetic feet, especially in the setting of hyposensate neuropathy, can be a major problem; early podiatric management helps prevent complications