Synonym: keratoma plantare sulcatum
Causative organisms: Corynebacterium minutissimum, other corynebacteria, Micrococcus, Dermatophilus congolensis
Clinical features:
(1) The sole of the foot (plantar surface) shows crater-like pits measuring several millimeters in diameter.
(2) These are most common on weight-bearing surfaces.
(3) Lesions may also be present on the ventral surface of the toes.
(4) The patient may complain of foot odour.
The condition is associated with hyperhidrosis, heat and moisture.
Populations at risk:
(1) people wearing boots or occluded shoes
(2) athletes
(3) barefoot farmers
Laboratory features:
(1) A Gram stain done on lesions should show organisms.
(2) Aerobic culture should yield the causative bacteria..
