Therapy for eczema between the toes

In order to be able to make a diagnosis of eczema, one needs some information from the person affected which explains the occurrence of this eczema between the toes and one has to get a picture of the skin appearance in order to be able to classify it further. So in the beginning anamnesis and inspection are on the schedule. For example, one can ask whether certain substances have affected this area, which could have caused an allergic or toxic contact eczema.

Also, whether new detergent or care products have been used or whether you wear shoes that are hardly permeable to air for a long time can help. In people with atopic dermatitis, who classically have eczema in the bends of the joints, the clinical picture can explain the tendency for eczema to develop between the toes as well. Since athlete’s foot can also cause eczema, a frequent infestation should be clarified.

In addition, one should make sure that no other eczema or other skin appearance is developing on other skin areas, which one would also have to take into account. Therefore, one should not only look at the feet and the spaces between the toes, but ideally the entire skin. Normally, a medical history and a close examination of the skin is sufficient to make a diagnosis. If, however, there is a suspicion that athlete’s foot or an allergen is behind the eczema, further measures can be taken, such as a so-called epicutaneous test in case of suspected allergy or the examination of a small skin sample for a fungus.

Prognosis

After successful treatment of eczema between the toes, the prognosis depends to some extent on the cause. However, if the eczema-causing substances are avoided and the skin between the toes is cared for, the prognosis is good. The eczema usually heals without a scar.

Prophylaxis

In order to prevent eczema between the toes, one should make sure that the skin is always intact at that point and that no moisture, such as sweat, accumulates there, so that the skin barrier retains its function and no pathogens such as fungi or bacteria can penetrate. For dry, cracked skin, the application of moisturizing creams is recommended. If the foot is rather moist, it would be advisable to choose air-permeable footwear that is well suited to the situation and to regularly remove it from the feet.