Pitted keratolysis

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Pitted keratolysis
Synonyms	Keratolysis plantare sulcatum
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Foul odor, pitted lesions on the sole of the foot
Complications	Secondary infection
Onset	Any age, more common in adolescents and young adults
Duration	Chronic, can persist for years if untreated
Types	N/A
Causes	Bacterial infection by Kytococcus sedentarius, Dermatophilus congolensis, or Actinomyces species
Risks	Excessive sweating, occlusive footwear, poor foot hygiene
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, Wood's lamp
Differential diagnosis	Tinea pedis, Erythrasma, Plantar warts
Prevention	Proper foot hygiene, antiperspirants, breathable footwear
Treatment	Topical antibiotics, antiseptics, drying agents
Medication	Clindamycin, Erythromycin, Benzoyl peroxide
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common in tropical and subtropical climates
Deaths	N/A

Pitted Keratolysis, also known as Keratolysis plantare sulcatum, Keratoma plantare sulcatum, and Ringed Keratolysis, is a bacterial skin infection that typically affects the soles of the feet and toes. It is characterized by small, craterlike pits, especially in weight-bearing areas of the feet.

Pitted Keratolysis on the sole of a foot

Characteristics

• The infection presents as craterlike pits on the sole of the feet and toes.
• These pits are typically located in weight-bearing areas.

Causes

• Pitted Keratolysis is caused by Corynebacterium species bacteria and Kytococcus sedentarius.
• These bacteria thrive in moist environments, making the feet a common site of infection.

Risk Factors

• Excessive sweating of the feet (hyperhidrosis) and the use of occlusive footwear create a favorable environment for these bacteria.
• Individuals who wear closed shoes for extended periods, especially in hot and humid conditions, are at higher risk.

Symptoms

• Aside from the appearance of pits, symptoms can include a foul odor.
• There may also be mild itching or pain associated with the condition.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on the appearance of the feet.
• A skin scraping or culture may be performed to confirm the presence of the causative bacteria.

Treatment

• Treatment includes topical antibiotics such as erythromycin or clindamycin.
• Managing foot hygiene, such as keeping the feet dry and using breathable footwear, is crucial.

Prevention

• Preventative measures include good foot hygiene, using antiperspirants, and avoiding occlusive footwear.
• Changing socks regularly and using moisture-wicking materials can also help.

See Also

• Skin Infection
• Bacterial Infections
• Foot Health

External Links

• American Academy of Dermatology: Pitted Keratolysis Treatment
• National Center for Biotechnology Information: Pitted Keratolysis

References

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