These are common skin lesions in which the skin thickens in a localized area. They are painful and inflamed. They are called soft corns if the surface of the skin is peeling or damp. They commonly occur on the hands and feet but any area of the skin might be affected. These are common painful growth and they develop as a form of the body’s defense mechanism in order to protect bony spurs from becoming injured. The term corn derives its name from its appearance under the microscope. The center of the corn resembles a barley seed and is hard.

These are not harmful but can result in other problems such as infection. It has also been found out that tight fitting shoes can result in this condition on the feet. In the case of clavi, layers of dead skin are formed which are yellowish and at times sore and are formed on the weight bearing regions of the foot. Corns also consist of layers of dead skin but as compared to clavi they are pea sized. They are conical shaped and can be found on the non weight bearing areas of the foot.

Cause

These are caused due to pressure and friction. If one suffers from repetitive injury, the skin tries to protect itself from blistering. There is an increase in the number of basal epidermal cells which results in thicker prickle cell layer and thicker stratum corneum on the skin surface. The thick skin formed on the whole palm or sole is called as plantar keratoderma or palmar.

Symptoms

The symptoms range from generalized burning to severe pinpoint pain. If left untreated it can result in inflammation and infection.

Treatment

The treatment involves changing footwear in order to reduce the friction and pressure on the corn or clavi. The treatment of soft corn involves separating the toes with foam pads or lamb’s wool. A professional is required for removing the corn or clavi with a scalpel or file. One should avoid excision as it can result in pain and the area can get scarred. One should avoid OTC remedies which are based on acids and plasters as it can burn the nearby healthy skin.

Emollient cream with urea base can be applied for reducing keratosis and providing dermal hydration. Soft orthotic can be used or shoe can be modified for avoiding pressure to the lesion. It should be combined with application of an emollient cream.