What are the causes of hand and foot fungus?

The causes of tinea manuum and tinea pedis (hand and foot ringworm) are varied and mainly include the following points: 1. **Fungal infection**: Hand and foot ringworm are primarily caused by dermatophyte infections, which are the most common causative factors. Common fungi include Trichophyton and Epidermophyton species, which spread through direct or indirect contact, leading to infection. 2. **Environmental factors**: Prolonged exposure to humid, hot environments or wearing non-breathable shoes and socks can create favorable conditions for fungal growth, increasing the risk of developing hand and foot ringworm. 3. **Weakened immune system**: When an individual's immunity is compromised, the skin's resistance to fungal infection decreases, making it easier to develop hand and foot ringworm. 4. **Personal hygiene habits**: Poor personal hygiene, such as infrequent changing of shoes and socks or not washing hands regularly, can increase the chance of fungal infection, thus leading to hand and foot ringworm. 5. **Genetic factors**: Hand and foot ringworm may also be related to genetic factors; individuals with a family history of these conditions are more likely to develop them. Once symptoms of hand and foot ringworm appear, prompt medical treatment is necessary to prevent worsening of the condition or transmission to others.