Pittedkeratolysisis a non-contagious bacterial infection that affects the skin.
This article discusses the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for pitted keratolysis.
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Pitted Keratolysis Symptoms
Many symptoms can develop in a person with pitted keratolysis.
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The most common symptom of the condition is afoul smell coming from the feet.
In many cases, people with pitted keratolysis do not experience any symptoms.
Causes
Pitted keratolysis is brought on by different species ofbacteria.
It can also be found in people who often go barefoot.
The most common associated factor with pitted keratolysis is sweaty feet and occlusive footwear.
Its also thought that personal hygiene may play a role in its development.
People with hyperhidrosis may be more prone to pitted keratolysis.
Diagnosis
Healthcare providers diagnose pitted keratolysis based on its clinical appearance and odor.
There are specific tests used to confirm a diagnosis before beginning treatment.
Those tests include:
What Could Be Mistaken for Pitted Keratolysis?
Other skin conditions may appear similar to pitted keratolysis; thus, a correct diagnosis is required.
Those conditions include:
Treatment
Effective treatment options are available for people with pitted keratolysis.
How Long Does Treatment Last?
The treatment for pitted keratolysis depends entirely on the severity of the infection.
For some, a gel antibiotic may dump the infection in as little as one week.
Others with a worse infection may need antibiotics for as long as eight weeks.
Summary
Pitted keratolysis is a common bacterial infection that affects the soles of the feet.
Many people with the infection do not experience any symptoms.
However, the infection can occur in anyone that wears occlusive footwear and has excessively sweaty feet.
A Word From Verywell
Having pitted keratolysis can be uncomfortable and even painful.
That said, it is usually simple to treat once you get a proper diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pitted keratolysis isnt serious, and not everyone with it will experience uncomfortable symptoms.
It is highly treatable with antibiotics.
That said, the foot odor that develops because of the infection can be strong and foul.
Because of that, people may deal with social repercussions or self-esteem issues before getting it treated.
Unlike other skin conditions resulting from bacteria, pitted keratolysis is not contagious.
That means you cannot get it from another person or transmit it to others.
Pitted keratolysis is typically localized to the feet, specifically, the soles of the feet.
In some rarer cases, the condition can also develop on the palms of the hands.
doi:10.4081/dr.2012.e4
DermNet NZ.Pitted keratolysis.
