Description

Athlete's foot is caused by a fungal infection of the skin on the foot and is by far the most common fungal infection of the skin. The infection can be either acute or chronic. The chronic form of the disease is often associated with fungal-infected toenails. The acute form of the infection most often presents with scaling between the toes with small blisters and/or fissures. As the blistering breaks, the infection spreads and can involve large areas of the skin on the foot. The infection can also occur as isolated circular lesions on the bottom or top of the foot. The burning and itching that accompany the blisters may cause great discomfort. As the skin breaks down from the fungal infection, a secondary bacterial infection can ensue.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of tinea pedis (athlete's foot) is generally made based upon the clinical presentation. A definitive diagnosis is made by taking a scraping of the skin and culturing it.

Treatment

Treatment should be directed at controlling the fungal infection as well as any secondary bacterial infection. There are topical and oral medications available for the treatment of this condition. Wearing sandals to reduce moisture accumulation and heat generated by closed shoes will also help in the control and spread of the infection. Other conditions that mimic acute athlete's foot include contact dermatitis and pustular psoriasis.

The chronic form of athlete's foot is a relatively non-inflammatory type of infection. It is characterized by a dull redness to the skin and pronounced scaling. It may involve the entire bottom of the foot giving a "moccasin" appearance. It generally does not itch or result in the formation of blisters. This form of the disease frequently has an associated fungal infection of the toenails. There are topical and oral medications available for the treatment of this condition.

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