Name of the Condition

• Tinea pedis
  
  • Common names: Athlete's foot, Foot ringworm

Summary

• Tinea pedis, commonly known as athlete's foot, is a fungal infection affecting the skin on the feet, causing itching, burning, and flaking. It is contagious and often occurs in warm, moist environments.

Causes

• Tinea pedis is caused by dermatophyte fungi such as Trichophyton rubrum. The infection often spreads in moist areas like locker rooms, showers, and swimming pools.

Risk Factors

• Walking barefoot in communal areas
• Wearing tight, closed-toe shoes
• Having sweaty feet
• Previous history of fungal infections
• Weakened immune system

Symptoms

• Itching, stinging, or burning between the toes
• Cracked, peeling, or scaling skin
• Redness and blisters
• Dry sole or sides of the feet

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and may include a skin scraping test (KOH test) to detect fungal elements under a microscope.

Treatment Options

• Topical antifungal medications: E.g., Clotrimazole or terbinafine creams, which help eliminate the fungus.
• Oral antifungal medications: Prescribed for severe or persistent cases to tackle the infection from within.
• Keeping feet clean and dry, using antibacterial soap, and wearing moisture-wicking socks can also aid in treatment.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With proper treatment, tinea pedis usually resolves within a few weeks. However, reoccurrence is common, and ongoing foot care is recommended.
• Follow-up may involve monitoring skin condition improvement and using preventive measures post-treatment.

Complications

• If untreated, tinea pedis can lead to bacterial infections such as cellulitis. It can also spread to other parts of the body, including nails (onychomycosis).

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Keep feet dry and well-ventilated.
• Wear shower shoes in communal areas.
• Change socks and shoes regularly.
• Use antifungal powder or spray as a preventive measure.

When to Seek Professional Help

• If over-the-counter treatments are ineffective
• Development of severe pain, redness, or swelling
• Symptoms persist or worsen over time

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Dermatology (AAD): aad.org
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): cdc.gov
• National Institute of Health (NIH): nih.gov

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the correct identification of the condition based on specific symptoms and presentation.
• Avoid confusing tinea pedis (B35.3) with other fungal infections of the body or skin, which may have different codes.