How long does topical antibiotic therapy take to work for pitted keratolysis?
Short answer
Topical antibiotic therapy for pitted keratolysis may reduce foot odour within days, while pits and softened skin can take longer to recover; continue as prescribed.
This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.
At a glance
- Early change
- Odour may lessen before pits disappear
Understanding early change
Pitted keratolysis affects the thick skin of the soles. Moisture and bacterial activity can cause shallow pits, strong odour, and a soggy texture. Odour may improve before the surface looks normal, while damp footwear can keep the problem active.
Keep feet dry
Apply the prescribed medicine to clean, thoroughly dry skin. Wash and dry between the toes, change damp socks, alternate shoes so they can dry, and choose breathable footwear. Do not scrape the pits or use harsh disinfectants. Tell a clinician about diabetes, poor circulation, broken skin, or heavy sweating.
When to seek review
Arrange review if odour, pits, or tenderness do not improve after the instructed period or return repeatedly. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, warmth, swelling, drainage, increasing pain, fever, or a wound that does not heal.
Questions to ask
Ask how long to continue treatment, whether odour change is an adequate early response, how to manage sweating, and how to reduce recurrence.
Find care
General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi
That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.
27 Ar Ruwwad St - Shakhbout City - MSH4 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, MetLife +20 more
Al Ruwais, Al Dhafrah
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +16 more
Al Bahyah - Al Bahyah Old - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, Allianz Care +18 more
Abu Dhabi
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +27 more
Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.
A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.
Questions people ask
Why are pits still visible?
The sole surface can repair more slowly than odour changes.
Can damp shoes affect recovery?
Yes. Drying and rotating footwear supports treatment.
Related
Related reading
Keep reading
Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.