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TINEA PEDIS (Athlete's Foot)

This patient information and photograph on Athlete's Foot is provided by John L. Meisenheimer, M.D. a board certified Dermatologist and skin care specialist based in Orlando, Florida.  This information is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice or treatment of a dermatologist or other physician.

What is it?    Tinea pedis is a skin infection of the feet. In common terms this disorder is known as "athlete's foot". It can occur at any age but is more common in adults. Typically it appears as an itchy, scaly, rash on the soles of the feet and between the toes. Severe cases may result in crack or fissures forming in the skin. 

What causes it?    Tinea pedis is a fungal infection of the feet. The fungus grows best in warm moist places (like shoes), and it has a tendency to worsen during the summer due to increased sweating.  While your in my office, a simple lab test can  be done to confirm the diagnosis.

Is it dangerous?    For the typical healthy person athlete's foot is a harmless disorder, but severe cases may become secondarily infected with bacteria. 

Can it be cured?    The treatment program I put you on will help control or clear the disorder, but it is not a permanent cure. Even if the Tinea pedis is totally cleared, you will still be predisposed to have repeat episodes. Repeat treatments may be needed and some individuals will require continuous therapy. 

What home care should I use?

1. Keep feet dry and you may want to blow dry between toes 2-3 times a day.  

2. Keep shoes and socks dry.  Change socks if they become sweaty during the day.    

3.  Use medicated powder in socks on a daily basis. This helps keep the feet dry.  I have recommended Zeasorb AF powder for years. This medicated powder contains antifungals which suppress fungus growth. More info/Order Here .

4. Recurrences can be treated with Lamisil cream. This does not need a prescription  and  is very effective for control. More info/Order Here.      

Will it spread?    The fungus which causes Tinea pedis can affect other areas of the skin, but in most cases it stays confined to the feet. 

Is it contagious?    Tinea pedis is contagious to people who have limited immunity to the fungus. Since the fungus is found in so many places, it is almost impossible to avoid contact. A good preventive treatment program is the best way to ward off re-infection.

© John L. Meisenheimer, M.D.  2004                                   WWW.OrlandoSkinDoc.com

Last modified: 10/19/08