Fungal foot infection: the hidden enemy?

Ivan Bristow is Lecturer, School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton; Manfred Mak is Podiatrist, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore When discussing tissue viability in the lower limb, much attention is focused on the role of bacterial infection. However, fungal skin infection is a more frequent and more recurrent pathogen which often goes undetected by the practitioner and patient alike. Potentially, untreated fungal foot infection can facilitate secondary problems such as superficial bacterial infections, or, more seriously, lower limb cellulitis. Often simple measures can prevent fungal foot infection and therefore reduce the possibility of complications. This article will review the presentation of tinea pedis and onychomycosis, their effects and management.