Tinea pedis-An embarrassing problem for health and beauty-A narrative review
Danuta Nowicka1, Urszula Nawrot2
1Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, Poland.
Abstract:
Fungal infections present with a broad spectrum of diseases in humans (from relatively mild superficial infections of the skin and mucous membranes to the invasive or chronic infections of internal organs, which have a high mortality rate). Globally, up to 1.6 million people die each year as a result of various types of mycoses. Currently, many scientific studies focus on the best possible understanding of the aspects of the epidemiology and pathogenesis of invasive mycoses and effective methods to combat them. However, mycoses of the skin and its appendages remain a relatively less explored area. In some communities, superficial mycoses are a frequent problem as they affect nearly 70% of the population, an example of which is the athlete's foot. It involves the nails (onychomycosis) and skin (tinea pedis). It is mainly caused by keratin-decomposing dermatophyte fungi. Less often, infections are caused by non-dermatophyte moulds (Fusarium, Aspergillus, Scopulariopsis) or yeasts. Several factors have been listed as having substantial influence on the development of dermatophytosis, including those related to climate, season, geographical region, as well as to demography, socioeconomic and cultural customs, professions or contact with animals. In this review, we summarise the current knowledge about aetiology, epidemiology, diagnostics and therapy of tinea pedis with a special focus to the role of podologic management in spreading, prevention and therapy of mycoses. The article presents up-to-date knowledge on the management of the patient from the diagnosis, treatment and skincare, to counselling on how to prevent fungal skin infections in the long term.
Insights
Superficial fungal infections like athlete's foot affect many people globally. This review explores tinea pedis causes, diagnosis, and treatment, emphasizing podiatric care for prevention and management.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Dermatology
- Podiatry
Background:
- Fungal infections cause significant global mortality, with superficial mycoses like athlete's foot affecting up to 70% of some populations.
- While invasive mycoses receive much research attention, superficial fungal infections, particularly tinea pedis, remain less explored.
- Tinea pedis, involving skin and nails, is primarily caused by dermatophytes but can also involve non-dermatophyte molds and yeasts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on the etiology, epidemiology, diagnostics, and therapy of tinea pedis.
- To highlight the role of podiatric management in the prevention, spread, and treatment of superficial fungal infections.
- To provide comprehensive information on patient management, from diagnosis and treatment to long-term prevention strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current scientific knowledge on tinea pedis.
- Synthesis of information regarding etiological agents, epidemiological factors, diagnostic methods, and therapeutic approaches.
- Focus on the integration of podiatric care in the management of fungal skin infections.
Main Results:
- Tinea pedis is influenced by various factors including climate, season, geography, demographics, socioeconomic status, cultural practices, occupation, and animal contact.
- Dermatophytes are the primary cause, but other fungi like Fusarium, Aspergillus, and yeasts can also be involved.
- Podiatric management is crucial for effective patient care, encompassing diagnosis, treatment, skincare, and preventative counseling.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive understanding of tinea pedis etiology and epidemiology is essential for effective management.
- Podiatric interventions play a vital role in controlling the spread and recurrence of superficial fungal infections.
- Integrated patient care, including diagnosis, treatment, and long-term prevention strategies, is key to combating tinea pedis.
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