Diseases

tinea

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Overview

Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) is a fungal skin infection that usually begins between the toes. It commonly occurs in people whose feet have become very sweaty while confined within tight-fitting shoes.

Symptoms

  • scaly, peeling or cracked skin between the toes
  • blisters
  • itchiness, especially right after taking off shoes and socks
  • inflamed skin that might appear reddish, purplish or grayish
  • burning or stinging

Causes

  • athlete's foot is caused by the same type of fungi (dermatophytes) that cause ringworm and jock itch.
  • damp socks and shoes and warm, humid conditions favor the organisms' growth.

Risk factors

  • frequently wear enclosed footwear
  • sweat heavily
  • share mats, rugs, bed linens, clothes or shoes with someone who has a fungal inf

Diagnosis

  • physical exam.
  • signs and symptoms.

Medicines used

Frequently asked questions

What is tinea?

Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) is a fungal skin infection that usually begins between the toes. It commonly occurs in people whose feet have become very sweaty while confined within tight-fitting shoes.

What are the symptoms of tinea?

scaly, peeling or cracked skin between the toes, blisters, itchiness, especially right after taking off shoes and socks, inflamed skin that might appear reddish, purplish or grayish, burning or stinging

What causes tinea?

athlete's foot is caused by the same type of fungi (dermatophytes) that cause ringworm and jock itch.; damp socks and shoes and warm, humid conditions favor the organisms' growth.

Which medicines are used for tinea?

bifonazole, butenafine, ciclopirox, clotrimazole, econazole, griseofulvin, ketoconazole, miconazole, naftifine, selenium, sertaconazole, sulconazole, terbinafine

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