What are the types of tinea manuum and tinea pedis?

Jul 18, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I have had tinea manuum/pedis (hand/foot fungus) for several months now, with severe peeling, ulceration, and cracking on both the hands and feet. What are the different types of hand and foot fungal infections?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Tinea manuum and tinea pedis are common dermatological conditions caused by infection of the skin on the hands and feet by dermatophytes. The main types include: 1. **Vesicular type**: Commonly seen in individuals with hyperhidrosis of the hands and feet, it presents as small blisters on the fingertips or between the toes. These blisters may be scattered or coalesce into patches, accompanied by significant itching. The blisters are prone to rupture, leading to secondary bacterial infection. 2. **Maceration and erosion type**: Frequently occurs in individuals with excessive sweating of the hands and feet. It is characterized by white, macerated skin that appears soft and reveals erythematous, eroded surfaces. This type is associated with fissures and marked itching, and is prone to secondary infection accompanied by an odor. 3. **Squamous hyperkeratotic type**: Commonly affects the palms, soles, and heels, presenting as thickened, scaly, and rough skin in a patchy distribution. Cracks may develop in winter, sometimes leading to bleeding and pain, although itching is not prominent. Secondary bacterial infection is common. 4. **Papulosquamous type**: Often occurs between the fingers and on the palms, typically affecting one hand or foot. In some cases, tinea pedis may spread to involve the contralateral foot. This is a common form of skin lesion.