Causes of Athlete's Foot and Hand Fungus
Disease description:
My boyfriend is 23 years old. Recently, while working, he noticed a rash on his fingers and palms, accompanied by itching. He was diagnosed with tinea manuum (hand fungus). We would like to know what causes hand and foot fungus (tinea).
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
The main causes of tinea manuum and tinea pedis (hand and foot ringworm) include:
1. **Fungal infection**: Hand and foot ringworm are primarily caused by dermatophyte infections. Common fungi include *Trichophyton rubrum* and *Trichophyton mentagrophytes*. These fungi can spread to the skin through direct or indirect contact.
2. **Environmental factors**: Prolonged exposure to humid and hot environments, or wearing non-breathable shoes and socks, can promote fungal growth and reproduction, thereby increasing the risk of developing hand and foot ringworm.
3. **Personal hygiene habits**: Poor personal hygiene, such as infrequent changing of shoes and socks or not washing hands regularly, can lead to fungal proliferation on the skin and trigger hand and foot ringworm.
4. **Immune status**: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those long-term users of antibiotics or corticosteroids, are more susceptible to fungal infections.
5. **Other factors**: Skin injuries, obesity, and excessive sweating may also contribute to the development of hand and foot ringworm. Additionally, genetic factors may influence an individual's susceptibility to fungal infections.
