What is the Athlete’s foot?

Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) is a common fungal skin infection affecting the feet and the areas between the toes. This infection causes macerated, scaling lesion, which may spread from the interdigital spaces to the sole. Diagnosis must rule out other possible causes, such as eczema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, and maceration by tight, ill-fitting shoes.

 

Symptoms of Athlete’s foot

Cracking, flaking of the skin between the toes
Itching and burning sensation
Leading to exposed raw tissue, pain, swelling and inflammation

Prevention of Athlete’s foot

 
Patient should keep his feet clean and dry also cotton socks should be worn to absorb sweat, patient should expose his feet to air whenever possible, and to wear sandals or leather shoes. Patient should wash his feet twice daily and, after drying them thoroughly, to apply antifungal cream followed by antifungal powder to absorb perspiration and prevent excoriation.

 

Treatment of Athlete’s foot

Athlete’s foot is often treated with topical antifungal medication such as lotion, powder, spray or you may need an oral medication such as pill, capsule or tablet. Many other options are available, including itraconazole, miconazole, and a keratolytic such as salicylic acid.


Written by Medpages Editorial Team
Last Editorial Review: 18/1/2010