What does tinea manuum/pedum mean?

Tinea manuum and tinea pedis are dermatophytic infections primarily affecting the skin of the hands and feet. Tinea manuum specifically refers to infections caused by dermatophytes invading the interdigital spaces, palms, and smooth skin on the palmar side, while tinea pedis mainly affects the skin between the toes, soles, heels, and lateral margins of the feet. These fungi include Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, and others, with Trichophyton rubrum being the predominant species. Tinea manuum and tinea pedis are mainly transmitted through direct contact, such as sharing shoes, socks, gloves, towels, or other personal items with infected individuals, or by scratching affected areas and subsequently spreading the infection. Clinical manifestations include acute lesions such as papules, vesicles, and bullae, as well as chronic lesions characterized by scaling, hyperkeratosis, skin thickening, and fissuring. Additionally, patients may experience itching, burning sensations, or pain. Severe cases can lead to secondary bacterial infections, potentially causing complications such as lymphangitis and lymphadenitis. Treatment typically involves the application of antifungal medications and maintaining cleanliness and dryness of the affected areas to promote recovery.