Tinea pedis, also known as athlete’s foot, is a fungal infection of the feet. It is the most common type of ringworm. Tinea pedis is caused by a fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments. This is why it is most common in people who have sweaty feet, such as athletes, dancers, and people who work in hot, humid environments.
The symptoms of tinea pedis vary depending on the type of infection. The most common type of tinea pedis is interdigital tinea pedis, which affects the skin between the toes. This type of tinea pedis typically causes itching, burning, and scaling between the toes. In some cases, the skin between the toes may become red and cracked.
Another type of tinea pedis is moccasin tinea pedis. This type of tinea pedis affects the soles and sides of the feet. It typically causes scaling, redness, and dryness of the skin on the soles and sides of the feet. In some cases, the skin may become cracked and painful.
Tinea pedis is contagious. It can be spread through contact with an infected person or animal, or by contact with contaminated objects, such as towels, floors, and gym equipment.
Tinea pedis is typically treated with antifungal medication, either topical or oral, depending on the severity of the infection. Topical medications, such as creams or ointments, can be applied directly to the affected area to help relieve itching and reduce inflammation. Oral medications may be prescribed for more severe cases, or for infections that are widespread.
The table below illustrates the distinctions among Tinea versicolor, Tinea pedis, and Tinea corporis.
| Condition | Cause | Location | Appearance | Transmission | Treatment | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tinea versicolor | Malassezia globosa (a type of yeast) | Chest, back, shoulders, arms | Light or dark patches on the skin | Contact with an infected person or animal | Antifungal cream or ointment | Keep the skin clean and dry |
| Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot) | Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Epidermophyton floccosum (fungi) | Feet | Red, itchy rash between the toes or on the soles of the feet | Contact with an infected person or animal | Antifungal cream or ointment | Keep the feet clean and dry |
| Tinea corporis (ringworm) | Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton tonsurans, Microsporum canis (fungi) | Arms, legs, torso | Red, scaly rash | Contact with an infected person or animal | Antifungal cream or ointment | Keep the skin clean and dry |
To learn more about all kinds of Tinea, please click on the link below: