This image displays scaly, slightly elevated lesions typical of tinea pedis (athlete's foot). The space between the 4th and 5th toe is a frequent location of the start of athlete's foot (tinea pedis). Tinea pedis (athlete's foot) can cause blisters, as displayed in this scaly, red patch. This image displays two feet-one hand syndrome that is typical in tinea pedis (athlete's foot), with both feet and only one hand being affected. Tinea pedis (athlete's foot) often causes a "moccasin foot" with dry, red, rough areas along the entire side of the foot. Tinea pedis (athlete's foot) will often start between the toes, as displayed in this image. The circular shape of these red, scaling patches on the back of the feet demonstrate why tinea is often called "ringworm." Careful inspection will usually reveal cracks between the toes as well. Moisture has been a prime factor encouraging athlete's foot infection between the toes displayed in this image. This image displays scaling and erosion of the skin between the toes in a severe case of tinea pedis (athlete's foot).
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Picture of Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis): This image displays scaly, slightly elevated lesions typical of tinea pedis (athlete's foot). Divider line
This image displays scaly, slightly elevated lesions typical of tinea pedis (athlete's foot).
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Overview
Tinea pedis is the medical term for athlete's foot, a very common fungal infection of the skin of the foot. Tinea infections, in general, are often called ringworm, though there is no worm involved in the infection; the name comes from the fungus that infects the skin, causing ring-shaped lesions to grow. Athlete's foot is harmless but very bothersome; it is usually quite itchy, and the affected skin may also burn and peel. The space between the toes is commonly affected and becomes red and often peels and itches; when the bottom of the foot is affected it may be less itchy but may form a tough, leathery skin. 

Athlete's foot is named because it is acquired from contact with dark, moist places common to athletes, such as sneakers and locker room floors. Athlete's foot is contagious. The best way to avoid getting athlete's foot is to keep the feet dry at all times and to avoid the surfaces that the fungus lives on. The fungus can also be acquired from contaminated soil or animals. 
Last Modified: 3 Mar 2008
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