What is pitted keratolysis in the foot?

Pitted keratolysis is often a quite prevalent infection of the skin of the foot which is observed as multiple cavities or holes in the bottom of the feet and occasionally the toes. The infection is actually brought on by a bacteria from the Corynebacterium variety. This disorder is a lot more common wherever damp footwear or boots are generally used for prolonged amounts of time, for example work books or army shoes or boots and too much sweat is allowed to build up. The buildup of the moisture will be the environment that the microorganisms can develop in which is also often accompanied with stinky feet at the same time. The small craters which develop caused by the higher levels of sweating as well as bacterial infection look like tiny holes in the feet, commonly on the sole as well as the epidermis tends to have a whitish discoloration. The craters are usually from 1 to 5 mm in diameter and are also round and shallow. Frequently both your feet will be affected. These types of holes or pits seen in pitted keratolysis are caused by bacteria that secretes enzymes which result in the dysfunction of the keratin protein inside the outermost layer of the damaged epidermis. The dysfunction of the epidermis produces sulphur substances that cause the foot smell. Since these microorganisms flourish in the dark, hot and also humid atmosphere inside the shoes or boots, this concern will continue until that is sorted out. Pitted keratolysis can have comparable features as athlete's foot and hyperhidrosis, so podiatrists will conduct some tests and make some observations to tell apart which of these is the actual cause of the issue.

The strategy to the treating pitted keratolysis would be to manage the infection and address the risk elements which brought on it to start with. The infection is best treated with a topical cream antibiotic that one could generally buy at the pharmacy as well as on prescription from a doctor, dependent on how potent the medicine is required to be and how acute the pitted keratolysis will be. Antibiotics taken orally are generally not recommended. The antibiotic commonly are helpful but normally do not function too well unless the foot care is taken care of and that hostile warm and moist environment that the bacteria prefers is resolved. The feet will need to be cleansed at least on a daily basis using soapy water and then dried out totally afterwards, particularly between the toes. Making use of alcohol wipes will also help dry your feet right after bathing. After doing so, it is best to remain barefoot as long as feasible for a complete airing of the foot. Socks which absorb sweat and are changed several times a day can be very helpful in the workplace if boots have to be used. Antiperspirants available from the drug store can help as well to help keep your feet dry. Once the pitted keratolysis has initially getting better, prevention is significant. The feet will still must be cleaned meticulously and antiperspirants should still have to be applied. Moisture absorbing shoe inserts can be worn inside the footwear or work boots. Powders inside the socks could also be used to help absorb the unwanted dampness.