Severe Pitted Keratolysis: What to Know

The condition affects the outer layer of thick skin, most often on weight-bearing parts of the soles and sometimes between the toes. Tiny crater-like pits may join into larger eroded areas. Moisture, heat, occlusive footwear and prolonged sweating help the bacteria thrive. The odour can remain strong even after washing, and the skin may feel tender or itchy.

Body Odour can have many causes, but foot odour with visible pits and persistently waterlogged soles is a reason to have the skin examined rather than masking the smell.

Wash the feet, dry carefully between the toes and change damp socks promptly. Choose breathable footwear and rotate shoes so they can dry fully. Do not share socks, towels or shoes, and avoid walking barefoot in communal wet areas. Keep the affected skin clean and avoid picking at pits.

A clinician may prescribe Topical Antibiotic Therapy to reduce the bacteria. If sweating is a major trigger, Prescription Antiperspirant may be discussed as part of prevention after the infection is assessed.

Arrange medical review when pits are spreading, the sole is painful, the skin is cracking, or odour persists despite careful drying. Seek faster assessment for increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pus, fever, or difficulty walking. People with diabetes, reduced sensation or poor circulation should obtain advice early because foot problems can become more serious.

Ask whether the pits fit pitted keratolysis or another foot condition, how long to use the prescribed treatment, and which sweat-control and footwear changes can prevent recurrence.