Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 3, 2025
Predictive Measurement for Windlass Change in Length and Selected Treatment Outcomes in Chronic Plantar Fasciitis
Published on: March 1, 2024
Toe Web Infection: Epidemiology and Risk Factors in a Large Cohort Study
Michal Solomon1, Hila Greenbaum2, Avner Shemer1
1Department of Dermatology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat-Gan, Israel.
Introduction:
Toe web infection (TWI) is a bacterial infection of the interdigital space. In most cases, the infection is caused by gram-negative bacteria, secondary to a chronic fungal infection (dermatophytosis). The typical presentation includes macerations and erosions in the interdigital space. Predisposing factors include interdigital tinea, hyperhidrosis, and humidity.
Objective:
The aim of this study was to characterize the TWI patient population and identify associated risk factors.
Methods:
We conducted a retrospective study of patients diagnosed with TWI from 2006 to 2020 at Sheba Medical Center, Israel. Collected data included patients' demographics (age, sex, weight, and occupation), smoking pack-years, comorbidities, medications, and course of disease.
Results:
A total of 200 patients were diagnosed with TWI. The median age at diagnosis was 51 years. The majority of the patients were men (72.5%). The most common comorbidities were dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes, and ischemic heart disease. We found that 71.2% of patients were smokers, and 46.4% of patients had occupations that required closed-toe shoes. TWI incidence did not increase seasonally. Bilateral TWI was found in 50% of the patients, 33% had recurrent infections, and 20% had secondary cellulitis.
Conclusions:
Smoking and diabetes were more prevalent among TWI patients than in the general population, and there was a correlation between smoking and TWI recurrences. We identified risk factors for TWI to identify at-risk populations.
Insights
This study found smoking and diabetes are more common in toe web infection (TWI) patients. Identifying these risk factors helps target populations for TWI prevention and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Toe web infection (TWI) is a bacterial infection in the interdigital space, often secondary to fungal infections.
- Commonly caused by gram-negative bacteria, TWI presents with macerations and erosions.
- Predisposing factors include tinea pedis, hyperhidrosis, and environmental humidity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the patient population diagnosed with toe web infection (TWI).
- To identify associated risk factors and comorbidities in TWI patients.
- To inform targeted interventions for at-risk populations.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 200 patients diagnosed with TWI between 2006 and 2020.
- Data collected included demographics, smoking history, comorbidities, and disease course.
- Analysis focused on identifying prevalent risk factors and patient characteristics.
Main Results:
- The median age of TWI patients was 51 years, with 72.5% being male.
- Higher prevalence of smoking (71.2%) and occupations requiring closed-toe shoes (46.4%) were observed.
- Common comorbidities included dyslipidemia, hypertension, and diabetes; 33% experienced recurrent infections.
Conclusions:
- Smoking and diabetes are significantly more prevalent in TWI patients compared to the general population.
- A correlation exists between smoking and the recurrence of toe web infections.
- Identifying these risk factors is crucial for proactive management and prevention strategies.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...
01:23Skin Diseases and Disorders
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
01:25Urinary Tract Infection II: Pathophysiology
01:20Study Designs in Epidemiology
Observational studies are those where the researcher does not intervene but rather observes natural variations. They include cross-sectional, cohort, and...
01:20Infection
The chain begins with pathogens: bacteria, viruses, fungi, prions, or parasites such as protozoa helminths. These can be present on the skin as transient or resident flora, or they can be acquired from the environment. Identifying and treating the type of infection and...