Tinea pedis- Advances Mycology

Tinea pedis- Advances in Mycology and Pathology

Tinea pedis

Synonyms

                Ring worm of foot or Moccasin foot

Introduction, History and Epidemiology

            Tinea pedis or athlete’s foot is a foot infection caused by fungus. It infects the foot especially in toes. Tinea pedis was first time reported by Whitfield in 1908.

Distribution

            Tinea pedis is common in South-East Asia and in parts of Africa and Australia. The disease is more common in adults and is found around the world affecting both sexes i.e. males and females.

Pathogenesis

            Tinea pedis is thought to be world’s most common dermatophytosis. The prevalence of the Tinea pedis increases with age. The presentation of the Tinea pedis increases with age.  The presentation of the Tinea pedis is dependent on the host’s immune system snd the infecting dermatophyte. All the three generaE.floccosum, Triphyton spp and Microsporum spp are involved in this disease.This disease is also known as ring worm disease because of ring worm structure. Pathogen is active at the site of ringworm. It is common in body where hairs are not present.

Diagnosis

            Tinea pedis affects all ages but more common in adults than in children. The diagnosis of Tinea pedis is confirmed by microscopy and culture of skin scrapings.

Treatments

            Tenia pedis is usually treated with topical antifungal agents but if the treatment is unsuccessful oral antifungal medicines may be considered including terbinafine and triconazole.

Prevention

            The prevention against Tenia pedis should be done. These preventions are:

1. Keep your feet dry and clean.
2. Wear shoes in public places.