HOMEOPATHY FOR PITTED KERATOLYSIS

Pitted keratolysis is a superficial bacterial infection typically of the soles of the feet, characterized by whitish skin with clusters of punched-out pits, and resulting in smelly feet. This condition is also known as smelly feet (Bromodosis).

Etiology

Pitted keratolysis is caused by several bacterial species, including corynebacteria, Dermatophilus, Kytococcus sedentarius, actinomyces and streptomyces.

Clinical features

Signs and symptoms of pitted keratolysis include:

·       Smelly feet

·       Usually affects the sole of the foot-forefoot, heel, or both. Palms are rarely infected.

·       Whitish skin surface with clusters of multiple, fine punched-out pits.

·       Pits often join together to form a larger, crater-like lesion.

·       The appearance is more dramatic when the feet are wet.

·       A variant of pitted keratolysis presents with diffuse red areas on the soles.

·       The pits themselves are usually asymptomatic but may cause soreness or itching when walking.

Prevention

Pitted keratolysis will quickly recur unless the feet are kept dry. The following precautions should be taken to prevent recurrences:

·       Wear boots for as short a period as possible.

·       Wear socks which effectively absorb sweat, i.e., cotton and/or wool.

·       Wear open-toed sandals whenever possible.

·       Wash feet with soap or antiseptic cleanser twice daily.

·       Do not wear the same shoes two days in a row-dry them out.

·       Do not share footwear or towels with others.

HOMEOPATHY MEDICINES

Homoeopathy today is a growing system and is being practiced all over the world. Its strength lies in its evident effectiveness as it takes a holistic approach towards the sick individual through promotion of inner balance at mental, emotional, spiritual and physical levels. When pitted keratolysis is concerned there are many effective medicines are available in Homoeopathy, but the selection depends upon the individuality of the patient, considering the mental and physical symptoms.

SILICEA

Smelly feet with offensive sweat. Offensive sweat on feet, which is acrid, itching and destroying shoes. Feet become icy cold with copious sweat. Soreness in soles from instep through to the sole. Pits and exfoliation of the skin are seen on the sole.

BARYTA CARBINICA

Offensive foot sweat, especially in children. Cold, foul foot sweat. Feet is cold, and clammy. Toes and sole sore, soles painful on walking. Soles feel hot or bruised at night during sleeping. Chronic throat complaints.

GRAPHITES

Smelly feet with fissures, cracks, and pits in soles and in between toes. Sweat is foul and excoriating, worse in evening. Feet is cold and wet. Acrid foot sweat chafes the toes. Habitual constipation.

CALCAREA CARBONICA

Sour foot sweat. Soles of the feet feel raw. Burning of soles of feet. Suited to fat, flabby persons. Chilly, easily catches cold. Craving for eggs and indigestible things like dirt, chalk, pencil.

LYCOPODIUM CLAVATUM

Profuse foot sweat. Pain in the heels and soles while walking. One foot hot and other cold. Prefer warm drinks and food. Craving for sweets.

ANTIMONIUM CRUDUM

Skin on soles is withered due to foot sweat. Feet is very sensitive due to the presence of corns.

SEPIA

Offensive foot sweat. Itching, stinging, and burning ulcers in the toes and heels. Itching is not relieved by scratching. Pricking and burning sensation of feet. Soreness in heel and between toes.

SULPHUR

Icy cold feet with an offensive sweat. Foot feels sore from the top through to the sole. Sulphur patient put the feet out of bed due to excessive heat in soles at night.