What is keratinized tinea manuum/pedum?

Keratinized tinea manuum and pedis is a common skin disease primarily caused by dermatophyte infections, especially Trichophyton rubrum and Epidermophyton floccosum. These fungi infect the skin of the hands and feet through direct contact, leading to inflammatory reactions and abnormal thickening of the stratum corneum. Symptoms include thickened, rough skin, deeper skin grooves, dryness, and scaling, with minimal itching in most cases. During autumn and winter seasons, patients may also experience skin fissures, pain, and even bleeding on the feet. In addition, the development of keratinized tinea manuum and pedis is associated with multiple factors such as genetic predisposition, immune dysfunction, excessive sweating of the hands and feet, and trauma to the hands and feet. Individuals with a family history of tinea manuum and pedis are more susceptible to this condition, while immune dysfunction and hyperhidrosis create favorable conditions for fungal growth. Skin injuries such as abrasions or cuts also increase the risk of fungal infection. Key preventive measures for keratinized tinea manuum and pedis include maintaining personal hygiene, avoiding sharing personal items with infected individuals, keeping hands and feet clean and dry, and wearing breathable and comfortable footwear and socks.