Athlete’s Foot

athlete’s foot, also called tinea pedis, fungal infection of the feet, a form of ringworm. The skin areas most commonly affected are the plantar surface (sole) of the foot and the web spaces between the toes. It is estimated that at least 70 percent of all people will have a fungal foot infection at some point in their lives. Athletes may be at a slightly greater risk than other populations, because a major risk factor for infection is exposure of the feet to warm, moist communal environments, such as infected locker rooms and public showers. Other factors that predispose certain populations to infection are medical conditions such as hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) and disorders of the immune system. Athlete’s foot is seen in males more commonly than in females and is uncommon prior to puberty.