Other terms
- Cancer
- Cancer Vaccines
- Candidiasis
- Capsule Endoscopy
- CAR T-Cell Therapy
- Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser Resurfacing
- Carbuncle
- Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)
- Carcinogens
- Carcinoma
- Cardiology
- Cardiomyopathy
Calluses
What are Calluses? A callus is a thickened area of skin that has become relatively hard and tough as a response to repeated friction, pressure, or other irritation. Calluses most commonly develop on the feet, especially under the heels or on the balls of the feet. They can also develop on the hands, fingers, or anywhere on the skin where there is repeated friction.
Causes
When an area of the skin is subjected to repeated stress and friction, the body responds by increasing the production of skin cells and keratin in the area to create a thick protective layer of skin. Over time this thickened layer of skin densifies and hardens forming a callus. Calluses most often form in response to recurring rubbing from loose fitting shoes, or repeated use of hand tools without gloves. However, certain medical conditions, such as pachyonychia congenita and diabetes, can contribute to callus formation.
Treatment and Prevention
While they may be aesthetically displeasing or cause mild discomfort, calluses are generally benign. Preventative measures include wearing well-fitting, comfortable shoes, using gloves when handling tools, and regularly moisturizing the skin.
Medical intervention may be required in certain situations, particularly if the callus becomes painful, leads to deformity, or limits mobility. Standard treatment methods include using keratolytic agents such as salicylic acid to soften the callus or mechanical debridement to remove dead skin. In rare instances, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct a problematic bone structure contributing to recurrent callus formation.
