Skip to main content

Keratolysis, Pitted

Donna I. Meltzer, MD and Tiana M. Larsow, MD Reviewed 05/2023
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

  • Pitted keratolysis (PK) is a bacterial dermatosis involving the keratin-rich, weight-bearing areas of the feet and, less commonly, the palms.

  • It is characterized by both a foul odor a...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

  • PK is usually a clinical diagnosis. Patients complain of pitting on the soles of their feet and an embarrassing foul odor that usually accompanies the condition.

  • It should be noted, ho...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Avoid wearing occlusive footwear, if possible.

  • Keep feet clean and dry; wash feet twice daily with soap or antibacterial cleanser.

  • Avoid ill-fitting shoes in an effort to reduc...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

  • With the above treatments, most cases resolve within about 3 weeks.

  • In resistant cases, second-line treatments and more concerted efforts at moisture reduction and...

REFERENCES

1
Leeyaphan C, Limphoka P, Kiratiwogwan R, et al. Randomized, controlled trial testing the effectiveness and safety of 2.5% and 5% benzoyl peroxide for the treatment of pitted keratolysis. J...

ADDITIONAL READING

  • van der Snoek EM, Ekkelenkamp MB, Suykerbuyk JC. Pitted keratolysis; physicians' treatment and their perceptions in Dutch army personnel.  J Eur Acad Dermatol V...

CODES

ICD10

L08.89 Oth local infections of the skin and subcutaneous tissue 

SNOMED

51212009 Pitted keratolysis 

CLINICAL PEARLS

  • Patients with PK are likely to complain of pitting on the soles of their feet and of the embarrassing foul odor that usually accompanies the condition.

  • The most common conditions to be ...

Subscribe to Access Full Content

Sign Up for a 10-Day Free Trial

Sign up for a 10-day FREE Trial now and receive full access to all content.

×