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Recurrent tinea pedis: a double blind study on the prophylactic use of fenticonazole powder
G Albanese1, R Di Cintio, P Giorgetti
1Department of Dermatology, S. Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy.
Abstract:
Tinea pedis is a common and frequently recurring dermatophytic infection, which is extremely difficult to eradicate. The often inevitable persistence of predisposing conditions, especially maceration, suggests that application of powders containing antifungal medication to the affected area could be effective in preventive therapy against recurrence. For this study we used one of the most recent azole antifungal agents, fenticonazole. Thirty patients affected with tinea pedis were cured with topical antifungal treatment; both the diagnosis and the cure were confirmed by microscopic and cultural mycological analyses. The results of subsequent double blind antifungal versus placebo treatment (controlled with clinical and mycological tests over a period of 4 months and with a final statistic evaluation) confirmed the effectiveness of such therapy in reducing the frequency of tiresome relapses in such patients.
Insights
Topical fenticonazole powder may prevent tinea pedis recurrence. This antifungal treatment, applied after initial cure, significantly reduced relapses in patients with persistent predisposing factors like maceration.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Tinea pedis is a prevalent, recurrent fungal infection.
- Eradication is challenging due to persistent predisposing factors such as maceration.
- Preventive strategies are crucial for managing frequent relapses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of topical fenticonazole powder in preventing tinea pedis recurrence.
- To assess the role of antifungal powders in managing persistent fungal infections.
Main Methods:
- Thirty patients with tinea pedis were initially cured with topical antifungal treatment.
- Diagnosis and cure were confirmed via microscopic and cultural mycological analyses.
- A subsequent 4-month double-blind study compared fenticonazole powder against a placebo, with clinical and mycological assessments.
Main Results:
- Fenticonazole powder treatment was confirmed effective in reducing relapse frequency.
- Statistical evaluation supported the therapeutic benefits of the antifungal powder.
- The study demonstrated a significant decrease in tiresome relapses.
Conclusions:
- Topical fenticonazole powder is effective in the preventive therapy of tinea pedis.
- Antifungal powders can help manage recurrent dermatophytic infections, especially when predisposing factors persist.
- This approach offers a viable strategy to reduce the burden of tinea pedis relapses.