Candidiasis of the Skin: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

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Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
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We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

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Candidiasis is a fungal skin infection. Home remedies and lifestyle changes often help, but antifungal cream or powder may be necessary.

Different types of bacteria and fungi live and grow on your skin. Most of them aren’t dangerous. Your body requires the majority of them to carry out normal functions. However, some can cause infections when they begin to multiply uncontrollably.

The Candida fungus is one of these potentially harmful organisms. When an overgrowth of Candida develops on the skin, an infection can occur. This condition is known as candidiasis of the skin, or cutaneous candidiasis.

Candidiasis of the skin often causes a red, itchy rash to form, most commonly in the folds of the skin. This rash may also spread to other areas of the body. While the symptoms are often bothersome, they can usually be treated with improved hygiene and antifungal creams or powders.

The main symptom of candidiasis of the skin is a rash. The rash often causes redness and intense itching. In some cases, the infection can cause the skin to become cracked and sore. Blisters and pustules may also occur.

The rash can affect various parts the body, but it’s most likely to develop in the folds of the skin. This includes areas in the armpits, in the groin, between the fingers, and under the breasts. Candida can also cause infections in the nails, edges of the nails, and corners of the mouth.

Other conditions that may resemble candidiasis of the skin include:

• ringworm
• hives
• herpes
• diabetes-related skin conditions
• contact dermatitis
• seborrheic dermatitis
• eczema
• psoriasis

Candidiasis of the skin develops when the skin becomes infected with Candida. A small amount of Candida fungi naturally live on the skin. When this type of fungus begins to multiply uncontrollably, however, it can cause an infection. This may occur because of:

• warm weather
• tight clothing
• poor hygiene
• infrequent undergarment changes
• obesity
• the use of antibiotics that kill harmless bacteria that keep Candida under control
• the use of corticosteroids or other medications that affect the immune system
• a weakened immune system as a result of diabetes, pregnancy, or another medical condition
• incomplete drying of damp or wet skin

Candida fungi thrive and grow in warm, moist areas. This is why the condition often affects areas where there are folds of skin.

Babies can also develop candidiasis of the skin, especially on the buttocks. A diaper tends to provide an ideal environment for Candida.

Candidiasis of the skin usually isn’t contagious. However, people with weakened immune systems may develop the condition after touching the skin of an infected person. Those with compromised immune systems are also more likely to develop a severe infection as a result of candidiasis.

Your doctor will likely be able to make a diagnosis simply by performing a physical examination. During the exam, they’ll inspect the location of your rash and the appearance of your skin.

Your doctor may also want to perform a skin culture before making a diagnosis of candidiasis of the skin. During a skin culture, your doctor will rub a cotton swab over the affected area and collect a skin sample. The sample will then be sent to a laboratory to be tested for the presence of Candida.

Candidiasis of the skin can usually be prevented with home remedies, the most important of which is proper hygiene. Washing the skin regularly and drying the skin thoroughly can prevent the skin from becoming too moist. This is vital to keeping Candida infections at bay.

There are many lifestyle changes you can make to both prevent and treat a candidiasis infection.

Helpful tips

• Quickly change out of damp clothing, such as swimsuits or sweaty workout clothes.
• Change your socks and undergarments regularly.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing.
• Use gentle and scent-free soap on affected areas.
• Add probiotics to your diet.
• Reduce the amount of sugar in your diet.

Was this helpful?

Since abnormal blood sugar levels can contribute to the development of Candida infections, keeping your blood sugar under control may also help relieve symptoms. You may be able to lower your blood sugar by reducing the amount of sugar in your diet and by exercising for 30 minutes at least three times per week. If you have diabetes, it’s important to continue following your doctor’s instructions as you may need to start receiving oral medications or an increased amount of insulin.

In severe or persistent cases of candidiasis, your doctor may recommend using an antifungal cream or powder that can be applied to your skin. Over-the-counter antifungal creams that are often recommended include clotrimazole (Mycelex), miconazole (Monistat), and tioconazole (Vagistat). This type of treatment can kill Candida and reduce the spread of the infection.

Your doctor may prescribe an antifungal cream such as nystatin or ketoconazole if the over-the-counter treatments aren’t effective. If the infection has already spread to areas inside your body, such as your throat or mouth, you may need to take an oral antifungal to get rid of it.

Cutaneous candidiasis (or candidiasis present on skin, nails, or hair) is a common occurrence in infants and babies.

Candidiasis-related diaper rash is one of the most frequently occurring candidiasis infections in babies. This rash is typically red with a well-defined border, and normally lasts more than three days. Treatment includes changing the infant’s diaper frequently and allowing them to wear loose-fitting clothes on top of the diaper. The antifungal nystatin may be prescribed.

Oral thrush is another common occurrence in newborns and infants under 6 months old. Symptoms can include cracked skin in the corners of the mouth and whitish patches on the lips, tongue, or inside of the cheeks. Your doctor can prescribe an antifungal medication that’s applied to the infant’s mouth several times a day.

If candidiasis infection is left untreated, it can enter the bloodstream and spread. See your doctor if you believe your baby has candidiasis.

Learn more: Oral thrush »

Although healthy children have strong immune systems, a 2010 study found that the rate of topical fungal infections among children is increasing rapidly. Children sometimes develop candidiasis infections after receiving antibiotics that treat another condition. Children who suck their thumbs may be prone to developing candidiasis infections in or around their nail beds.

If your child is 9 months or older and has reoccurring thrush or skin infections, this could point to an underlying health concern, such as HIV or another problem with the immune system. Older children with frequent or severe skin infections should also be tested for diabetes.

Candidiasis of the skin usually goes away with treatment, and most people fully recover without complications. If treated, the candidiasis typically resolves within one to two weeks. Without prescription treatment, recovery can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the severity of the infection.

Even with treatment, it is possible for the infection to return in the future. People with compromised immune systems, especially those undergoing chemotherapy and those with HIV or AIDS, are at a much higher risk of severe or life threatening Candida infections. If you’re undergoing chemotherapy or you have HIV or AIDs and you develop severe throat pain, headache, or high fevers, you should see your doctor immediately.

A:

Answers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

Was this helpful?

Candidiasis of the Skin: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Candidiasis is a fungal skin infection. Home remedies and lifestyle changes often help, but antifungal cream or powder may be necessary.

Different types of bacteria and fungi live and grow on your skin. Most of them aren’t dangerous. Your body requires the majority of them to carry out normal functions. However, some can cause infections when they begin to multiply uncontrollably.

The Candida fungus is one of these potentially harmful organisms. When an overgrowth of Candida develops on the skin, an infection can occur. This condition is known as candidiasis of the skin, or cutaneous candidiasis.

Candidiasis of the skin often causes a red, itchy rash to form, most commonly in the folds of the skin. This rash may also spread to other areas of the body. While the symptoms are often bothersome, they can usually be treated with improved hygiene and antifungal creams or powders.

The main symptom of candidiasis of the skin is a rash. The rash often causes redness and intense itching. In some cases, the infection can cause the skin to become cracked and sore. Blisters and pustules may also occur.

The rash can affect various parts the body, but it’s most likely to develop in the folds of the skin. This includes areas in the armpits, in the groin, between the fingers, and under the breasts. Candida can also cause infections in the nails, edges of the nails, and corners of the mouth.

Other conditions that may resemble candidiasis of the skin include:

• ringworm
• hives
• herpes
• diabetes-related skin conditions
• contact dermatitis
• seborrheic dermatitis
• eczema
• psoriasis

Candidiasis of the skin develops when the skin becomes infected with Candida. A small amount of Candida fungi naturally live on the skin. When this type of fungus begins to multiply uncontrollably, however, it can cause an infection. This may occur because of:

• warm weather
• tight clothing
• poor hygiene
• infrequent undergarment changes
• obesity
• the use of antibiotics that kill harmless bacteria that keep Candida under control
• the use of corticosteroids or other medications that affect the immune system
• a weakened immune system as a result of diabetes, pregnancy, or another medical condition
• incomplete drying of damp or wet skin

Candida fungi thrive and grow in warm, moist areas. This is why the condition often affects areas where there are folds of skin.

Babies can also develop candidiasis of the skin, especially on the buttocks. A diaper tends to provide an ideal environment for Candida.

Candidiasis of the skin usually isn’t contagious. However, people with weakened immune systems may develop the condition after touching the skin of an infected person. Those with compromised immune systems are also more likely to develop a severe infection as a result of candidiasis.

Your doctor will likely be able to make a diagnosis simply by performing a physical examination. During the exam, they’ll inspect the location of your rash and the appearance of your skin.

Your doctor may also want to perform a skin culture before making a diagnosis of candidiasis of the skin. During a skin culture, your doctor will rub a cotton swab over the affected area and collect a skin sample. The sample will then be sent to a laboratory to be tested for the presence of Candida.

Candidiasis of the skin can usually be prevented with home remedies, the most important of which is proper hygiene. Washing the skin regularly and drying the skin thoroughly can prevent the skin from becoming too moist. This is vital to keeping Candida infections at bay.

There are many lifestyle changes you can make to both prevent and treat a candidiasis infection.

Helpful tips

• Quickly change out of damp clothing, such as swimsuits or sweaty workout clothes.
• Change your socks and undergarments regularly.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing.
• Use gentle and scent-free soap on affected areas.
• Add probiotics to your diet.
• Reduce the amount of sugar in your diet.

Was this helpful?

Since abnormal blood sugar levels can contribute to the development of Candida infections, keeping your blood sugar under control may also help relieve symptoms. You may be able to lower your blood sugar by reducing the amount of sugar in your diet and by exercising for 30 minutes at least three times per week. If you have diabetes, it’s important to continue following your doctor’s instructions as you may need to start receiving oral medications or an increased amount of insulin.

In severe or persistent cases of candidiasis, your doctor may recommend using an antifungal cream or powder that can be applied to your skin. Over-the-counter antifungal creams that are often recommended include clotrimazole (Mycelex), miconazole (Monistat), and tioconazole (Vagistat). This type of treatment can kill Candida and reduce the spread of the infection.

Your doctor may prescribe an antifungal cream such as nystatin or ketoconazole if the over-the-counter treatments aren’t effective. If the infection has already spread to areas inside your body, such as your throat or mouth, you may need to take an oral antifungal to get rid of it.

Cutaneous candidiasis (or candidiasis present on skin, nails, or hair) is a common occurrence in infants and babies.

Candidiasis-related diaper rash is one of the most frequently occurring candidiasis infections in babies. This rash is typically red with a well-defined border, and normally lasts more than three days. Treatment includes changing the infant’s diaper frequently and allowing them to wear loose-fitting clothes on top of the diaper. The antifungal nystatin may be prescribed.

Oral thrush is another common occurrence in newborns and infants under 6 months old. Symptoms can include cracked skin in the corners of the mouth and whitish patches on the lips, tongue, or inside of the cheeks. Your doctor can prescribe an antifungal medication that’s applied to the infant’s mouth several times a day.

If candidiasis infection is left untreated, it can enter the bloodstream and spread. See your doctor if you believe your baby has candidiasis.

Learn more: Oral thrush »

Although healthy children have strong immune systems, a 2010 study found that the rate of topical fungal infections among children is increasing rapidly. Children sometimes develop candidiasis infections after receiving antibiotics that treat another condition. Children who suck their thumbs may be prone to developing candidiasis infections in or around their nail beds.

If your child is 9 months or older and has reoccurring thrush or skin infections, this could point to an underlying health concern, such as HIV or another problem with the immune system. Older children with frequent or severe skin infections should also be tested for diabetes.

Candidiasis of the skin usually goes away with treatment, and most people fully recover without complications. If treated, the candidiasis typically resolves within one to two weeks. Without prescription treatment, recovery can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the severity of the infection.

Even with treatment, it is possible for the infection to return in the future. People with compromised immune systems, especially those undergoing chemotherapy and those with HIV or AIDS, are at a much higher risk of severe or life threatening Candida infections. If you’re undergoing chemotherapy or you have HIV or AIDs and you develop severe throat pain, headache, or high fevers, you should see your doctor immediately.

A:

Answers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

Was this helpful?

Fungus on the feet: causes, symptoms, treatment

Where can I buy?

Encyclopedia

Fungus

Fungal infection of the skin on the legs is one of the most common contagious diseases ^1.2 .

1 in 4 people develop the condition at least once in their lifetime ³ .

The author of the article

Moshkova Elena Mikhailovna

Dermatovenereologist, head of the KDO for the provision of paid services, St. Petersburg State Budgetary Institution of Health “City Dermatovenerologic Dispensary”, St. Petersburg.

What is a fungus on the feet

Audio version of the page:

Fungus (mycosis) on the feet – fungal infections of the skin of the feet and interdigital folds, nails, caused by pathogenic and opportunistic fungi. Conditional pathogens are natural inhabitants that are present in the normal microflora of the skin and mucous membranes in small quantities, however, under certain conditions, fungi begin to acquire the properties of pathogenicity (pathogenicity) and cause diseases. Regardless of the pathogen, the disease has similar symptoms and treatment tactics.

Fungi of the genus Trichophyton ⁶ cause mycoses on the legs in 9 out of 10 cases.

According to statistics, men are more likely than women to get a fungal infection of the skin of the feet. Men account for almost 58% of all cases ⁶ .

Nail fungus (onychomycosis) most often develops on the III-IV nail plates of the feet. Often long-term untreated nail fungus causes mycosis of the skin of the feet and vice versa.

It should be noted that some skin diseases of a non-fungal nature may be complicated by the appearance of a fungal disease. Often, eczema of the feet is combined with mycoses.

Symptoms of the fungus on the feet

Dermatophytosis of the feet

Dermatophytosis of the feet (Tinea Pedis – athlete’s foot) is the most common mycosis of the skin of the feet and nails.

The fungal process of the feet, as a rule, begins with the defeat of the lateral surfaces . Perhaps the appearance of scaly exfoliation (sloughing) of the skin. This process is not always accompanied by discomfort, itching or soreness.

Hyperkeratosis develops over time – skin thickening . Sometimes you can notice a slight reddening of the skin, against the background of which there is floury peeling , giving the skin a “powdered look”. Dry skin is noted, itching and soreness may appear. If a fungal infection is left untreated at this stage, then after a while diaper rash will appear in the interdigital spaces. Most often, the interdigital form of foot fungus affects the folds between III and IV, IV and V fingers. Skin defects can be formed, characterized by a violation of its integrity (erosion) and painful cracks. In the interdigital form (intertriginous) there are pronounced manifestations of itching, sometimes burning of the affected skin.

In advanced form fungal disease of the feet occurs with the formation of bubbles on the surfaces of the fingers filled with a clear liquid and covered with a thick stratum corneum. “Sago grains” (vesicles) are single or merge into multi-chamber bubbles. As pyococci (purulent bacteria) attach, the contents of the vesicles become cloudy, then they open, erosions are formed, covered with purulent-hemorrhagic crusts. Perhaps inflammation of the lymph nodes, deterioration of general well-being.

When blisters appear, it is important not to confuse fungal infections with dyshidrotic eczema. Only a doctor can understand the problem and accurately establish the diagnosis!

In 2/3 of patients with interdigital and advanced forms of dermatophytosis of the feet, mycides (allergic rash) are noted.

Of course, the allocation of clinical forms is conditional, since their combination often occurs – one form can pass into another. It all depends on the reaction of the body, physical activity and methods of treatment of the patient ⁷ .

Also, with mycosis of the feet, the nails are often affected, mainly on the first and fifth toes. The nail plate acquires yellowish spots or stripes, the surface becomes dull and uneven, a horny thickening begins to appear under the nail, which further leads to the destruction of the nail plate.

Yeast-like mycoses of the feet

Recently, fungal infections of the feet, provoked by fungi of the genus Candida, have become widespread. It is assumed that this is due to the widespread use of antibiotics, cytostatics (antineoplastic drugs) ⁸ .

Fungi of the genus Candida , settling in the interdigital folds, cause symptoms similar to abrasion and diaper rash of the skin. Often, all interdigital spaces are involved in the skin process. There is pain, burning of the skin between the toes. Candidiasis of the nails (damage by Candida fungi) is more common on the hands of women – housewives, laundresses, dishwashers, food distributors in canteens. The nail plates become loose, exfoliate, white spots appear.

Mold mycoses of the feet

Mold mycoses are mainly distributed in countries where people traditionally walk barefoot (India, African countries) ⁹ . In regions with a temperate climate, this type of mycosis also occurs, but already, as a rule, in patients with immunodeficiency states and in people who often come into contact with the earth and plants ¹⁰ .

The color of the nail plate will depend on the particular pathogen. The nail plate can even become black.

However, with this staining of the nail, it is important not to miss the malignant form of the tumor of the skin of the finger – subungual melanoma.
It is absolutely necessary to see a doctor to make a correct diagnosis!

Often, fungal changes in the skin of the feet and nails can occur simultaneously. On the one hand, this can serve as a confirmation of the general fungal nature, on the other hand, it can mask other skin problems.

Not always a change in the color or thickness of the nail plate is necessarily onychomycosis (nail fungus). Nails can suffer from injury, wearing tight shoes, using low-quality varnish, or bacterial infection. For example, the green color of the nail plate becomes due to infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. But still, colors such as tan, gray, whitish should suggest a fungus and the need for laboratory diagnostics.

Also, the thickness of nails with fungal infection can remain normal or vice versa – become very thin.

See a short video about the treatment of foot fungus in a short video by a dermatovenereologist, professor, doctor of medical sciences, Olga Borisovna Tamrazova

Causes of foot fungus

The main causes of foot fungus are:

• Excessive foot sweating.
• Presence of chronic diseases. Diabetes mellitus, certain blood disorders, long-term use of antibiotics or immunosuppressive (immune-suppressing) drugs all contribute to the development of a fungal infection and the spread of the disease to other parts of the body.
• The presence of microtraumas on the legs. Small cracks, cuts – a direct way to join the infection. Therefore, it is very important to immediately treat the damaged areas of the skin with antiseptic agents.
• Non-observance of hygiene rules. Walking without shoes in public places (baths, saunas, swimming pools) is fraught with fungal infection.

Zalain

^® cream based on sertaconazole for the treatment of foot fungus

Sertaconazole is the main active ingredient of Zalain ^® cream. Due to the special chemical structure (an imidazole and benzothiophene derivative), the drug has a triple effect on fungi ¹² : it helps to suppress their growth, reproduction and death, as well as blocking the transition of fungi into a pathogenic form. Sertaconazole also has good lipophilicity (the ability to dissolve in the fatty structures of cells). This ensures rapid and effective penetration of the drug into the skin and enhances the local antifungal effect ¹³ . At the same time, the development of resistance of the fungal infection to the treatment is practically not observed. The drug has an antibacterial effect against streptococci and staphylococci ¹³ , relieves itching and inflammation ¹⁴ .

Thus, the advantages of Zalain ^® cream are:

• Broad antifungal spectrum ¹³
• Triple action on fungal cells ¹²
• Reduced itching, inflammation and antibacterial effect ^13.14
• Good penetration into affected skin areas and long-lasting antifungal activity due to lipophilicity
• May be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding if the expected benefit to the mother outweighs the possible risks to the unborn child

Instruction

Zalain ^® Cream for the treatment of foot fungus

The drug has an antibacterial effect against streptococci and staphylococci ¹³ , relieves itching and inflammation ¹⁴ .

Application of Zalain cream ^®

For fungal infections of the feet, it is recommended to apply the product in a thin layer on the affected area of ​​the skin covering 1 cm of healthy skin 1-2 times a day for 2-4 weeks ¹⁵ .

Triple effect: antifungal, antipruritic, anti-inflammatory

Used 1-2 times a day

Where to buy Zalain ^® Cream for the treatment of foot fungus

or

Find your nearest pharmacy

Toe fungus prevention

0003

Disinfect shoes during the ongoing treatment of foot fungus

Maintain personal hygiene, do not walk barefoot in public places (pools, saunas, baths)

Do not wear other people’s shoes

Choose shoes according to the season and preferably from natural materials.

Treat fresh sores and cuts in a timely manner

Use products to reduce sweating of the feet

Answers to questions

Is it possible to get re-infected with a fungus?

Answer: Yes, you can. Transferred fungal diseases of the skin do not cause stable immunity. Therefore, you can get infected with a fungus an unlimited number of times.

What is better to use for the treatment of fungus: tablets or creams and ointments?

Answer: The treatment regimen is determined solely by the attending physician. This takes into account the severity and degree of fungal infection. As a rule, fungal lesions of the legs are treated with local (external) remedies.

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References

1. Al Hasan M, Fitzgerald SM, Saoudian M, Krishnaswamy G. Dermatology for the practicing allergist: Tinea pedis and its complications. Clin Mol Allergy 2004; 2(1):5 DOI: 10.1186/1476-7961-2-5
2. Woodfolk JA. Allergy and dermatophytes. Clin Microbiol Rev 2005; 18(1):30-43. DOI:
   10.1128/CMR.18.1.30-43.2005
3. Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis) Authored by Dr Oliver Starr, Reviewed by Dr John Cox | Last edited May 2, 2018
4. Textbook “Skin and venereal diseases” edited by O. L. Ivanov., 2010
5. National Guide to Dermatovenereology edited by prof. Yu.S. Butova, acad. RAMS Yu. K. Skripkina, prof. O. L. Ivanova
6. Clinical guidelines of the Russian Federation, 2017
7. Pashinyan A. G. Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor, Moscow State Medical University, “Modern therapy of mycoses of the feet.”
   Medical Council, 2008
8. Maksimov I.S. “Modern possibilities of topical therapy of foot mycosis”.
   Consilium Medicum. 2020; 22(7):57-59. DOI: 10.26442/20751753.2020.7.200322
9. Alvarez MI, Gonzalez LA, Castro LA. Onychomycosis in Cali, Colombia. Mycopathologia
   2004; 158(2): 181-6. DOI: 10.1023/B: MYCO.0000041866.85314.e4
10. Rukavishnikova V. M. “Foot mycosis”. Moscow: Eliks Kom, 2003 [Rukavishnikova VM.
    Mycoses of the feet. Moscow: Elix Kom, 2003 (in Russian)
11. Clinical guidelines of the Russian Federation, 2017
12. Carrillo-Muñoz AJ, Tur-Tur C, Giusiano G, Marcos-Arias C, Eraso E, Jauregizar N, Quindós G. Sertaconazole: an antifungal agent for the topical treatment of superficial candidiasis. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther. 2013 Apr;11(4):347-58. doi: 10.1586/eri.13.17. PMID: 23566144.
13. RLS, official label of the substance sertaconazole
14. Study of the efficacy and safety of Zalain® 2% cream in the treatment of skin mycoses. I. G. Sergeeva, Yu. M. Krinitsyna Novosibirsk State University
15. According to the instructions for medical use of the drug Zalain cream reg. No.: P N015678

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Fungal infection of the skin on the legs – can and should be treated!

Source: Encyclopedia
Date: 03/24/2023

Dear patients!
Fungal infection of the skin on the legs is a fairly common occurrence that can and should be treated!

We remind you that you should not self-medicate! When the first signs of the disease appear, we recommend that you contact a dermatovenereologist, who, in turn, will conduct an examination, prescribe the necessary tests and treatment!

FUNGUS ON THE LEGS. Fungal infection of the skin on the legs is one of the most widespread contagious diseases. About 1 in 4 people develop this condition at least once in their lifetime.

What is a fungus on the feet

Fungus (mycosis) on the feet – fungal lesions of the skin of the feet and interdigital folds, nails, caused by pathogenic and opportunistic fungi. Conditional pathogens are natural inhabitants that are present in the normal microflora of the skin and mucous membranes in small quantities, however, under certain conditions, fungi begin to acquire the properties of pathogenicity (pathogenicity) and cause diseases. Regardless of the pathogen, the disease has similar symptoms and treatment tactics.

Fungi of the genus Trichophyton6 are the cause of athlete’s foot in 9 out of 10 cases.

According to statistics, men are more likely than women to get a fungal infection of the skin of the feet. Men account for nearly 58% of all cases6.

Nail fungus (onychomycosis) most often develops on the III-IV nail plates of the feet. Often long-term untreated nail fungus causes mycosis of the skin of the feet and vice versa.

It should be noted that some skin diseases of a non-fungal nature may be complicated by the appearance of a fungal disease. Often, eczema of the feet is combined with mycoses.

Symptoms of the fungus on the feet

Dermatophytosis of the feet

Dermatophytosis of the feet (Tinea Pedis – athlete’s foot) is the most common mycosis of the skin of the feet and nails.

The fungal process of the feet, as a rule, begins with the defeat of the lateral surfaces . Perhaps the appearance of scaly exfoliation (sloughing) of the skin. This process is not always accompanied by discomfort, itching or soreness.

Hyperkeratosis develops over time – skin thickening . Sometimes you can notice a slight reddening of the skin, against which there is mucosal peeling giving the skin a “powdery appearance”. Dry skin is noted, itching and soreness may appear. If a fungal infection is left untreated at this stage, then after a while diaper rash will appear in the interdigital spaces. Most often, the interdigital form of foot fungus affects the folds between III and IV, IV and V fingers. Skin defects can be formed, characterized by a violation of its integrity (erosion) and painful cracks. In the interdigital form (intertriginous) there are pronounced manifestations of itching, sometimes burning of the affected skin.

In the advanced form , fungal disease of the feet occurs with the formation of bubbles on the surfaces of the fingers filled with a clear liquid and covered with a thick stratum corneum. “Sago grains” (vesicles) are single or merge into multi-chamber bubbles. As pyococci (purulent bacteria) attach, the contents of the vesicles become cloudy, then they open, erosions are formed, covered with purulent-hemorrhagic crusts. Perhaps inflammation of the lymph nodes, deterioration of general well-being.

When blisters appear, it is important not to confuse fungal infections with dyshidrotic eczema. Only a doctor can understand the problem and accurately establish the diagnosis!

In 2/3 of patients with interdigital and advanced forms of dermatophytosis of the feet, mycides (allergic rash) are noted.

Of course, the allocation of clinical forms is conditional, since their combination often occurs – one form can pass into another. It all depends on the reaction of the body, physical activity and methods of treatment of the patient7.

Also, with mycosis of the feet, the nails are often affected, mainly on the first and fifth toes. The nail plate acquires yellowish spots or stripes, the surface becomes dull and uneven, a horny thickening begins to appear under the nail, which further leads to the destruction of the nail plate.

Yeast-like mycoses of the feet

Recently, fungal infections of the feet, provoked by fungi of the genus Candida, have become widespread. It is assumed that this is due to the widespread use of antibiotics, cytostatics (antineoplastic drugs).

Mushrooms of the genus Candida , settling in the interdigital folds, cause symptoms similar to skin abrasions and diaper rash. Often, all interdigital spaces are involved in the skin process. There is pain, burning of the skin between the toes. Candidiasis of the nails (damage by Candida fungi) is more common on the hands of women – housewives, laundresses, dishwashers, food distributors in canteens. The nail plates become loose, exfoliate, white spots appear.

Mold mycoses of the feet

Mold mycoses are mainly common in countries where people traditionally walk barefoot (India, African countries). In temperate regions, this type of mycosis also occurs, but already, as a rule, in patients with immunodeficiency conditions and in people who often come into contact with the ground and plants.

The color of the nail plate will depend on the particular pathogen. The nail plate can even become black.

However, with this staining of the nail, it is important not to miss the malignant form of the tumor of the skin of the finger – subungual melanoma.
Be sure to see a doctor to make a correct diagnosis!

Often, fungal changes in the skin of the feet and nails can occur simultaneously. On the one hand, this can serve as a confirmation of the general fungal nature, on the other hand, it can mask other skin problems.

Not always a change in the color or thickness of the nail plate is necessarily onychomycosis (nail fungus). Nails can suffer from injury, wearing tight shoes, using low-quality varnish, or bacterial infection. For example, the green color of the nail plate becomes due to infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. But still, colors such as tan, gray, whitish should suggest a fungus and the need for laboratory diagnostics.

Also, the thickness of nails with fungal infection can remain normal or vice versa – become very thin.

Causes of fungus on the feet

The main causes of fungal infection on the feet are:

• Excessive sweating of the feet.
• Presence of chronic diseases. Diabetes mellitus, certain blood disorders, long-term use of antibiotics or immunosuppressive (immune-suppressing) drugs contribute to the development of a fungal infection and the spread of the disease to other parts of the body.