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Keratolysis, Pitted

Donna I. Meltzer, MD and Tiana M. Larsow, MD Reviewed 06/2021
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

  • Pitted keratolysis (PK) is a bacterial dermatosis involving the keratin-rich, weight-bearing areas of the feet and, less commonly, the palms (1).

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

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

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

  • It should be noted, however, that i...

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
 van der Snoek EM, Ekkelenkamp MB, Suykerbuyk JC. Pitted keratolysis; physicians’ treatment and their perceptions in Dutch army personnel. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2013;27(9):1120–112...

ADDITIONAL READING

  • Blaise  G, Nikkels  AF, Hermanns-Lê  T, et al. Corynebacterium-associated skin infections. Int J Dermatol.  2008;47(9):884–890. [View Abstract on Ovi...

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 ...

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