table of contents
◼ Etiology & Pathological Process
Athlete’s foot, clinically termed tinea pedis, arises from fungal colonization of the epidermal layer.
Dermatophytes (primarily Trichophyton species) exploit compromised skin integrity to initiate infection.
- ▶ Initial Colonization: Fungi adhere to damaged stratum corneum through keratinolytic enzymes
- ▶ Hyphal Propagation: Branching hyphae extend vertically through epidermal layers
- ▶ Tissue Response: Maceration and intercellular edema trigger vesicle formation
◼ Characteristic Manifestations
▣ Interdigital maceration (most common presentation)
▣ Pruritus-mediated excoriation patterns
▣ Vesiculopustular eruptions with collarette scaling
◼ Diagnostic Indicators
| Feature | Differentiator |
|---|---|
| Satellite lesions | Distinct from contact dermatitis |
| KOH preparation | Hyphae visualization confirms diagnosis |