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Athlete's Foot (tinea pedis)
Waging war on athlete's foot
These lectures are not meant to replace your physician and are simply provided as
a free educational service to all our visitors. If you feel that you have a
skin problem, please see your doctor.
Athlete's foot is caused by superficial fungi on the skin. These fungi are
called dermatophytes. Athlete's foot is not caused by being dirty. However, the
moisture, humidity and sweat in the foot and toe area may play a role in the
development of athlete's foot. It is a contagious disorder that is
characterized by "rings" of scaling and redness. It is itchy. Athlete's foot
may occur on any part of the foot from the heel to in between the web spaces of
the toe. When it occurs in the web space of the toe, there may be a white,
moist color change known as maceration that occurs. If severe, there may be
pain and susceptibility to skin breakdown. In this case, secondary bacterial
infection may occur. For unknown reasons, some individuals may be more
susceptible to athlete's foot than others. There are other skin conditions that
can appear similar to athlete's foot and a dermatologist may help with this
evaluation and differentiation.
Athlete's foot can be easily treated with over-the-counter topical antifungals,
such as fungoid tincture. This is a commonly used and recommended product for
fungal infections of the skin as well as those caused by candida albicans.
Also, any factors that encourage a wet, moist environment for the foot should
be removed. Frequent sock and shoe changing and exposure to the foot to air may
be helpful.
For very severe cases, dermatologists may recommend oral antifungal medication
to treat ringworm. Appropriate monitoring of blood work may be necessary in
these cases as the oral medications may have serious side effects.
For more on Hands, Feet and Nails,
click here.
For more topics, click here.
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