There Are 3 Types of Athlete's Foot

There are actually three different types of Athletes’ Foot. While they are all caused by a genus of ringworm, they all display differently.

The three defined types are: Chronic Interdigital Athlete’s Foot (also known as Toe Web Infection), Chronic Scaly Athlete’s Foot (also know as Moccasin Type) and Acute Vesicular Athlete’s Foot.

The most common type is Chronic Interdigital Athlete’s Foot. As indicated by its name, it is usually found between the toes, typically the 4th and 5th but could also present between other toes. The skin becomes moist and white. There might be itching (worse when socks are removed) or burning or even a slight odor. Treatment is generally easy.

Chronic Scaly Athlete’s Foot often starts with a minor irritation. It is called Moccasin Type because, as it progresses, the foot can become red and scaly in a pattern resembling a moccasin. The skin of the foot thickens and begins to crack. Chronic Scaly Athlete’s Foot is the hardest of the three types to treat and very often needs prescription antifungal medication, either topical or oral.

A sudden appearance of blisters is what distinguishes Acute Vesicular Athlete’s Foot from the other two types. While it can be severe, it is also easily treated. Generally, this type of athlete’s foot will develop after a long fight with a toe web infection.

All three types are treated with antifungal medications. Over-the-counter topical creams, sprays, lotions and/or powders can usually successfully treat Toe Web Infection and Acute Vesicular Athlete’s Foot. No matter what type of athlete’s foot is present, it must be treated as the fungus will not go away by itself. If left untreated, it is possible for a severe infection to develop, requiring prescription antibiotics from a health care professional.

You can read about prevention and treatments at athlete’s foot fungus information.