Plantar pitted keratolysis: a study from non-risk groups.
Pitted keratolysis is an acquired, superficial bacterial infection of the skin which is characterized by typical malodor and pits in the hyperkeratotic areas of the soles. It is more common in barefooted people in tropical areas, or those who have to wear occlusive shoes, such as soldiers, sailors and athletes. In this study, we evaluated 41 patients who had been diagnosed with plantar pitted keratolysis. The patients were of high socioeconomic status, were office-workers, and most had a university degree. Malodor and plantar hyperhydrosis were the most frequently reported symptoms. The weight-bearing metatarsal parts of the feet were those most affected. Almost half the women in the study gave a history of regular pedicure and foot care in a spa salon. Mean treatment duration was 19 days. All patients were informed about the etiology of the disease, predisposing factors and preventive methods. Recurrences were observed in only 17% of patients during the one year follow-up period. This study emphasizes that even malodorous feet among non-risk city dwellers may be a sign of plantar pitted keratolysis. A study of the real incidence of the disease in a large population-based series is needed.
Near East University, Lefkosa-North Cyprus, Turkey;
Asli Feride
AF
Kaptanoglu
Bayindir Hospital Kavaklidere, Ankara, Turkey;
Ozlem
O
Yuksel
İzmir Ataturk Research and Education Hospital, İzmir,Turkey.
Selcuk
S
Ozyurt
foot odour; plantar pitted keratolysis; risk groups.