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What is a Keratoma?

D. Jeffress
D. Jeffress

A keratoma is a hard, light-colored patch of skin that develops as a result of friction or pressure. Also called a callus, a keratoma is most likely to appear on the soles of the feet, the backs of the heels, or the palms of the hands. Wearing uncomfortable shoes or working without gloves can lead to blistering and eventually to keratomas. In most cases, calluses are painless and not a cause for concern. Many different home remedies and medical products are available to help people remove calluses and learn how to prevent future skin problems.

The outermost layer of skin is largely made up of cells called keratinocytes which contain hard material that protects against heat and light. Keratinocytes have a short life-cycle and they are constantly being shed. When an area of skin is subjected to repetitive rubbing or pressure, hard keratinocytes build up in an effort to better protect underlying layers. The result is a rough, raised, firm callus.

A pumice stone, which can be used to rub off the outer layers of a keratoma.
A pumice stone, which can be used to rub off the outer layers of a keratoma.

A keratoma on the bottom of the foot can appear if a person starts running or walking more than usual, wears ill-fitting shoes, or has an abnormal gait that results in uneven weight distribution. Calluses on the heels are usually caused by loose shoes that slip up and down when walking. Construction workers, golfers, tennis players, and other people who perform repetitive activities with their hands may develop keratomas on their fingers or palms. Calluses are usually small, about 0.5 inches (about 1.25 centimeters) in diameter, though they can be two or three times larger.

People who perform repetitive motions with their hands, such as tennis players, may experience keratoma on their hands and fingers.
People who perform repetitive motions with their hands, such as tennis players, may experience keratoma on their hands and fingers.

Pain, swelling, or tenderness around a callus is unusual, and a person should visit a doctor if such symptoms arise to check for infections or other types of more serious skin conditions. In most cases, calluses are slightly lighter-colored than surrounding skin and feel rough to the touch. They may become dry, scaly, and flaky over time. If a callus does not hurt or look abnormal, it is usually unnecessary to seek medical care.

Keratinocytes are the most common skin cells, but can harden when repeatedly rubbed.
Keratinocytes are the most common skin cells, but can harden when repeatedly rubbed.

Soaking keratomas in warm water can soften the skin and help them clear up in a few weeks. A person can also use a washcloth or a pumice stone to rub off the outermost layer of flaky skin and promote faster healing. Using lotion and wearing comfortable shoes or gloves is important during the healing phase to prevent further irritation to the skin. In addition, a person may want to consider buying protective pads or shoe inserts at a pharmacy to make sure calluses do not return. If calluses persist, a doctor can prescribe a salicylic acid solution or consider surgically removing especially thick patches.

Discussion Comments

SteamLouis

I didn't know that a keratoma on a horse's hoof was possible until my mare developed it. She couldn't run and the keratoma kept getting bigger. She eventually had to have it removed with surgery. She recovered very well though.

ddljohn

@burcidi-- I think it does have to do with age a little bit, but it has more to do with the amount of activity and the type of shoes one wears. I think dress shoes that most of us wear to work is very bad for our feet and can lead to calluses. If you have to wear dress shoes, think about getting an orthopedic one or wear soft, gel insoles for support.

Some people recommend pumice stones but I've also read that the friction can actually trigger skin to produce more calluses. I personally use a callus cream instead. It has enzymes in it that break down calluses. It works great and my feet are soft again. You should give it a try.

burcidi

Does a keratoma have anything to do with age?

I used to have baby soft feet and soon after I passed 25, I started developing calluses. The skin underneath my feet has become tough and dry. I hate the feel and look of it. I use a pumice stone in the shower but it doesn't seem to be doing much.

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    • A pumice stone, which can be used to rub off the outer layers of a keratoma.
      By: dimasobko
      A pumice stone, which can be used to rub off the outer layers of a keratoma.
    • People who perform repetitive motions with their hands, such as tennis players, may experience keratoma on their hands and fingers.
      By: Galina Barskaya
      People who perform repetitive motions with their hands, such as tennis players, may experience keratoma on their hands and fingers.
    • Keratinocytes are the most common skin cells, but can harden when repeatedly rubbed.
      By: Alila Medical Media
      Keratinocytes are the most common skin cells, but can harden when repeatedly rubbed.
    • Surgery can be a last resort to remove a keratoma.
      By: Remains
      Surgery can be a last resort to remove a keratoma.
    • The epidermis is largely made up of keratinocytes.
      By: Deyan Georgiev
      The epidermis is largely made up of keratinocytes.