[Epidemiology, physiopathology and treatment of a frequent ailment: tinea pedis].
Tinea pedis is an infection of the stratum corneum caused by dermatophytes. Nowadays, fitness centers, saunas, subtropical swimming pools and sport-shoes are more and more fashionable and are certainly responsible for the increase of cases of tinea pedis as dermatophytes grow preferentially in warm and humid environments. The clinical aspect is affected by several factors such as the host reaction to the infection, the virulence of the infective strain, species, and some local and environmental factors. If a dermatophytosis is suspected, it is mandatory to validate the provisional diagnosis by demonstration of the fungus (by culture or/and microscopic examination) to avoid useless and expensive treatments. The new antifungal molecules are very effective, well tolerated and allow short course of therapy improving the compliance of the patient in clinical practice. Relapse of tinea pedis is very common but could be avoided by several simple preventive measures of hygiene.
Lambert
J
J
Service de Dermatologie, Université de Liège.
Richert
B
B
Dezfoulian
B
B
de la Brassinne
M
M
D000935:Antifungal Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D011379:Prognosis; D012008:Recurrence; D014008:Tinea Pedis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000503:physiopathology
D000935:Antifungal Agents