Callosity

Patient Information

https://www.dermnetnz.org/topics/corn-callus/

GP Information

Background Information

• Callosities refer to toughening and discolouration of the skin due to excessive pressure or repetitive contact with rough surfaces.
• Common causes include; oincreased pressure due to foot deformity.
  • Poor fitting shoes.
  • High heels.
  • Failure to wear socks.
• Patients typically complain of the cosmetic deformity with occasional super-imposed infection (fungal) +/- pain.

Investigation Guidelines

• Diagnosis is clinical.

Management Recommendations

• Treatment is focussed on treating the cause and preventing complications.
  • Scrubbing with a pumice stone after warm water soaking.
  • Well-fitting footwear.
  • Orthotics.
  • Moisturise dry skin.
• Referral indications.
  • Diagnostic uncertainty.
  • Significant infection (A&E).