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Goliath et Mme 2006

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Athlete's Foot (also known as tinea pedis) is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, and sometimes spreads to the toenails and the hands. It is characterized by itching, scaling, redness, and in severe cases, blistering and cracking of the skin. Athlete's foot is a member of the group of diseases known as tinea, which are caused by various types of the fungus Trichophyton. This condition is named "athlete's foot" because it is commonly seen in athletes, as the fungus thrives in warm, moist environments such as shoes, socks, swimming pool decks, and locker rooms.

Causes and Risk Factors

Athlete's foot is caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungi that requires keratin for growth. These fungi are spread through direct contact with infected skin flakes or through contact with contaminated surfaces. The risk of developing athlete's foot increases with frequent exposure to public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Wearing damp socks or tight-fitting shoes also creates an ideal environment for fungal growth.

Symptoms

The symptoms of athlete's foot can vary from mild to severe and typically include:

• Itching, stinging, and burning between the toes or on the soles of the feet
• Cracked, blistered, or peeling areas, often between the toes
• Dryness and scaling on the soles and sides of the feet
• Raw skin and blisters, which can lead to pain and swelling
• In chronic cases, toenails may become thickened, discolored, and even crumble

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of athlete's foot is primarily based on the appearance of the foot. However, a healthcare provider may perform a skin lesion KOH test (potassium hydroxide) to confirm the presence of fungi. In some cases, a skin culture or biopsy may be necessary to rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Treatment for athlete's foot includes over-the-counter antifungal medications in the form of creams, sprays, powders, and lotions. In more severe cases, prescription-strength antifungal medications may be required. Keeping the feet dry and clean, changing socks regularly, and wearing breathable footwear are important preventive measures. In addition, it is advisable to avoid walking barefoot in public areas to prevent reinfection and spreading the fungus to others.

Prevention

Preventive measures for athlete's foot include:

• Keeping feet dry, especially between the toes
• Changing socks and shoes regularly to avoid moisture buildup
• Wearing sandals in public showers, locker rooms, and around public pools
• Using antifungal powders or sprays if you are at high risk for developing athlete's foot
• Avoiding sharing shoes, socks, and towels with others

Epidemiology

Athlete's foot is one of the most common fungal infections worldwide, affecting both athletes and non-athletes alike. It is estimated that a significant percentage of the population will develop athlete's foot at some point in their lives. The condition is more common in adults than in children and affects males more frequently than females.