Common Superficial Bacterial Skin Infections Self-Reported by 1047 Greek Competitive Swimmers: A 2021 Retrospective...

Superficial bacterial skin infections are common, particularly among athletes. In swimming, data on folliculitis, impetigo, and pitted keratolysis are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of superficial bacterial skin infections in young competitive swimmers from Greek clubs.

An anonymous questionnaire was distributed to all swimming clubs through the Hellenic Swimming Federation, with a request to forward it to their members. It was completed by 1047 swimmers or their parents. Data collection included skin conditions along with explanatory notes, as well as additional information such as gender, swimming age category, season of occurrence, training routine details, and hygiene-related behaviors.

The study showed that 2.7% of participants reported being affected by folliculitis, 10.9% by impetigo, and 3.2% by pitted keratolysis. Infections were significantly correlated with age categories. Folliculitis and pitted keratolysis were less frequent and were mainly reported by adolescent and adult swimmers. In contrast, impetigo was more common and primarily affected younger age groups. Specific behaviors-such as placing towels and clothes on locker room benches-were significantly associated with pitted keratolysis (p = 0.036) and impetigo (p < 0.001). Sharing equipment was associated with all three infections.

This study highlights the high prevalence of bacterial skin infections in Greek swimmers, likely due to moisture exposure, shared equipment, and specific hygiene habits.