Pitted keratolysis is a somewhat rare and quite often misinterpreted skin-related condition that primarily has an effect on the bottoms of the foot. Although it might not be a common condition, understanding pitted keratolysis just what it really is important for people who are seeking respite from its discomforts. Pitted keratolysis normally shows up as little, superficial cavities or depressions on the weight-bearing parts of the soles of the feet and around the heels. These types of cavities tend to be bounded by a white or greyish rim and will vary in dimensions from a pinhead to several millimetres in diameter. Sometimes, these types of smaller sized pits might merge to form larger lesions. The disorder is usually not painful, but can possibly be itchy as well as produce a smell (which frequently described as a bad, cheesy type odour) as a result of bacterial overgrowth.
Pitted keratolysis is usually the result of a combination of factors, including bacteria, sweat, and keratin breaking down. The condition can be most commonly related to bacterial varieties for example Corynebacterium species, Kytococcus sedentarius, along with Dermatophilus congolensis. These microorganisms thrive in warm, damp conditions and are generally located on the surface of the skin. Sweating in excess, generally as a result of factors such as humid and hot weather, using tight and occlusive footwear which doesn't breath, or engaging in activities that creates foot sweating, results in an ideal environment for these types of microorganisms to thrive. Because the microorganisms increase in numbers, they make enzymes which breakdown keratin, a necessary protein found in the outermost layer of the skin. This keratin deterioration contributes to the development of the distinctive cavities about the soles of the foot. Detecting pitted keratolysis is usually clinical, depending on the typical appearance of the pits and also the connected odour.
The management of pitted keratolysis chiefly targets removing the causative factors and managing microbe overgrowth. Of most importance is correct foot hygiene. Frequently cleansing the feet using soapy water and drying the feet completely may help reduce microbial growth. Remaining without shoes following bathing to make certain the feet are totally dry is essential. Using shoes which can breath made out of natural components like leather will help reduce perspiration build up. Frequent footwear changes and taking advantage of moisture-wicking socks will also be effective. Ideally, going without footwear as frequently as is possible can be helpful at enabling the perspiration to escape minimizing the conditions the microorganisms that create this problem like to prosper within. Some instances will need topical antibiotics such as clindamycin or erythromycin are often prescribed by doctors to manage bacterial overgrowth. These prescription antibiotics may be used as creams or lotions. In some cases, aluminium chloride solutions used regularly to the feet enables you to reduce foot perspiration. Over-the-counter antiperspirants can help control sweating of the feet, along with the use of drying agents like talcum powder or sodium bicarbonate might help keep your feet dry. In extreme cases that do not respond to traditional treatment, antibiotics taken orally may be prescribed by doctors. It is critical to be aware that treatment really should be continued for an extended period to avoid recurrence, particularly the use of excellent foot hygiene practices. Pitted keratolysis may easily reoccur when the conditions are right.