Are plantar warts caused by a virus, or are they environmental?

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The underlying cause of plantar warts is the human papillomavirus (HPV). The Mayo Clinic says there are actually more than 100 variations of the HPV. Although the Mayo Clinic says that the warts are not highly contagious, they can be spread from person to person. ChaCha!

Answered - 110 days ago at 4:10pm on Feb 06 2012

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About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are noncancerous growths that occur on the sole (plantar surface), heel, or on the ball of the foot. Pressure from standing and walking often causes them to grow into the deep layers of the skin. Plantar warts can occur when HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) invades the body through tiny cuts or cracks in the skin on the bottom of the feet. People encounter the virus on contaminated surfaces, such as the tile floors of public locker rooms, showers, and swimming pools. Normally, antibodies in the blood destroy HPV, but in some cases, it takes refuge in the skin of the foot and causes plantar warts.

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About Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted disease, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). With more than 40 types of the virus that can affect the genitals, throat, and mouth of both men and women, HPV often goes undetected. HPV can lead to genital warts and cervical cancer. The CDC estimates that nearly 20 million people are currently infected with HPV, whether they know it or not, and 6 million more people will become infected each year.

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