Skin Infections

Overview

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Skin infections of the feet occur when bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms affect the skin and surrounding tissues. Common conditions include athlete's foot (tinea pedis), cellulitis, infected blisters, and bacterial infections associated with cuts or open wounds. These infections may develop when microorganisms enter through breaks in the skin or multiply in warm, moist environments. Individuals with diabetes, poor circulation, or weakened immune systems may be at increased risk for complications. Early identification and appropriate treatment are important to prevent infections from worsening or spreading.

Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms of foot skin infections vary depending on the underlying cause and severity. Common signs may include:

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• Redness & Inflammation: Red or discolored skin that may spread beyond the affected area.

• Swelling & Warmth: Localized swelling, tenderness, or increased skin temperature.

• Itching & Burning: Persistent irritation, particularly between the toes or along the soles.

• Cracking & Peeling: Dry, flaky, or broken skin commonly associated with fungal infections.

• Blisters & Open Sores: Fluid-filled lesions, skin breakdown, or wounds that may become infected.

• Drainage & Odor: Pus, discharge, or an unpleasant odor associated with certain infections.

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Evaluation & Diagnosis

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Skin infections of the foot, ankle, and lower leg can develop from bacterial, fungal, or viral causes. Identifying the type of infection is essential for determining the appropriate treatment and preventing complications. Common skin infections include:

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• Cellulitis: A bacterial infection affecting the deeper layers of skin, often causing redness, warmth, swelling, and tenderness.

• Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis): A common fungal infection that causes itching, peeling, cracking, or burning, particularly between the toes.

• Abscesses & Boils: Localized bacterial infections that create painful, swollen pockets of pus beneath the skin.

• Infected Wounds & Blisters: Bacterial infections that develop when microorganisms enter through cuts, blisters, ulcers, or other breaks in the skin.

• Impetigo: A contagious bacterial skin infection characterized by superficial sores, blisters, and honey-colored crusting.

• Erysipelas: A bacterial infection affecting the upper layers of skin, typically producing a raised, sharply defined area of redness, frequently involving the lower leg.

• Viral Skin Infections: Conditions such as plantar warts (HPV) that affect the skin of the feet and may cause painful lesions.

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​Treatment For Skin Infections

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Treatment for skin infections of the feet depends on the type of infection, its severity, and the patient's overall health. At Boca Raton Foot & Ankle Specialists, we develop individualized treatment plans that address the underlying cause, relieve symptoms, and reduce the risk of recurrence. Treatment options may include:

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• Antifungal Medications: Topical or oral medications to treat fungal infections, including athlete's foot.

• Antibiotic Therapy: Topical or oral antibiotics for appropriate bacterial skin infections, including cellulitis.

• Wound Care: Cleaning, protective dressings, and medically indicated debridement to promote healing of affected skin.

• Abscess Drainage: In-office drainage of localized collections of pus when clinically indicated.

• Skin Care & Prevention: Guidance on proper foot hygiene, moisture control, footwear, and prevention of recurrent infections.

• Follow-Up Monitoring: Reassessment of infections that are persistent, recurrent, or associated with underlying medical conditions.