Pitted Keratolysis
Pitted keratolysis is a reasonably rare and often misunderstood dermatological condition that predominantly affects the soles with the feet. Although it may not be a well-known condition, understanding pitted keratolysis just what it really is very important if you are looking for getting rid of the symptoms. Pitted keratolysis ordinarily manifests as little, superficial pits or depressions about the weight-bearing areas of the bottom of the foot and around the heels. These types of small holes on the bottom of the foot are often surrounded by a white-colored or dull edge and may vary in dimensions from a pinhead to several millimetres across. Sometimes, these types of smaller cavities may combine to produce larger sized skin lesions. The disorder is usually not painful, but might end up being itchy and also produce an odour (which often described as a horrible, cheesy like aroma) because of bacterial overgrowth.
Pitted keratolysis is primarily the result of a mixture of variables, which includes bacteria, sweat, and keratin break down. The condition can be most often related to microbial varieties for example Corynebacterium species, Kytococcus sedentarius, as well as Dermatophilus congolensis. Most of these microorganisms thrive in warm, damp conditions and are often found on the surface of the skin. Sweating in excess, usually as a result of factors such as humid and hot weather conditions, using tight and occlusive footwear that doesn’t breath, or engaging in pursuits that can induce foot sweating, generates a perfect atmosphere for these microbes to thrive. Because the microorganisms grow, they produce enzymes which breakdown keratin, a necessary protein found in the outermost layer of the skin. This keratin degradation contributes to the formation of the characteristic cavities about the bottom of the foot. Disagnosing pitted keratolysis is primarily clinical, depending on the typical appearance of the cavities and the associated odour.
The treatment of pitted keratolysis mostly focuses on reducing the causative factors and managing microbial overgrowth. Of most relevance is proper foot cleanliness. Frequently cleansing the feet by using water and soap and drying out them completely can help lessen bacterial growth. Staying barefoot after washing to ensure the foot is dry is essential. Using footwear that are able to breath made out of natural components like leather-based will help reduce sweat build up. Frequent shoe changes and making use of moisture-wicking hosiery may also be useful. Preferably, going without shoes as frequently as is possible is a good idea at enabling the sweat to escape and reduce the conditions which the bacteria that create this condition like to flourish within. Many cases need to have topical cream prescription antibiotics such as clindamycin or erythromycin will often be given to control microbial overgrowth. These kinds of prescription antibiotics can be applied as ointments or gels. In some cases, aluminium chloride solutions applied regularly to the feet may be used to decrease foot perspiration. Over-the-counter antiperspirants might help handle perspiration of the feet, along with the use of drying products such as talcum powder or baking soda might help keep your feet dry. In severe cases that will not respond to this approach, oral antibiotics may be prescribed. It’s important to remember that treatment should be continued for an longer timeframe to stop recurrence, particularly the use of excellent foot cleanliness practices. Pitted keratolysis can easily happen again if the conditions are conducive to it.