Athlete’s foot
Athlete's foot is a fungal infection of the skin that causes scaling, flaking, and itch of affected areas. It is typically transmitted in moist areas where people walk barefoot, such as showers or bathhouses. Although the condition typically affects the feet, it can spread to other areas of the body, including the groin.
Athlete's foot can usually be diagnosed by visual inspection of the skin, but where the diagnosis is in doubt direct microscopy of a potassium hydroxide preparation (known as a KOH test) may help rule out other possible causes, such as eczema or psoriasis. A KOH preparation is performed on skin scrapings from the affected area.
Treatment includes topical medication as well as good hygiene practices. Good hygiene practices include:
·
Wearing
slippers when showering in public places
·
Wearing
open toed shoes to keep feet dry or changing shoes and socks frequently
· Avoid sharing of towels and shoes/socks
· Avoiding certain types of shoe “liners” in athletic shoes
· Drying your feet well after showering