Pitted keratolysis is a superficial bacterial skin infection that primarily affects the soles of the feet or less commonly the palms of the hands. The first descriptions were reported from Indo China. The infection is caused by certain bacteria, most commonly Corynebacterium, Kytococcus sedentarius, Dermatophilus congolensis and Bacillus thuringiensis. These bacteria produce enzymes that break down the keratin, in the outer layer of the skin, leading to the formation of pits. The main contributing factors to pitted keratolysis are excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) and prolonged wearing of occlusive footwear. Warm, moist environments create ideal conditions for bacterial growth. Athletes, soldiers, and people who wear tight, non-breathable shoes for long periods and working on fields or industrial environments are more likely to develop this condition, but recently number of cases are growing among office workers. By ignoring the symptoms, the skin can be degraded and deep tissue infections may occur with already more serious consequences. That is why it is important to treat and also prevent this infection. Pitted keratolysis can be treated topically without antibiotics, only applying all-natural solutions.
