Itch (pruritus) is a common symptom, often frustrating for the patient making life difficult as they may be unable to sleep, relax or work. In some cases, itch can be debilitating as a painful condition. In this blog, I will look at a range of conditions that may present as itching primarily of the feet.

Ceramides are a specific group of lipids known as sphingolipids – long fatty acid chains with an amide bind and a waxy texture (“cera”-meaning wax in Latin). They are amphipathic meaning they have hydrophilic (water attracting) and hydrophobic (water repelling) components within their structure.

Onycholysis is a common nail condition observed by podiatrists and other healthcare professionals, but it is seldom discussed as a single entity. This blog explores the various diagnoses that can lead to lifting of a single nail – monodactylic onycholysis. Why? As this article uncovers, monodactylic disease can be the presenting sign of nail malignancy, a condition which is often delayed in diagnosis due to their rarity.

A question which many patients ask - can my fungal nail infection clear by itself?

Alitretinoin has been shown to be effective at managing eczema affecting the feet.

The ULCER acronym can help clinicians to recognise a melanoma disguised as a diabetic foot ulcer

Infective intertrigo is a mixed bacterial and fungal infection found between the toes causing redness, pain an swelling

Tinea pedis is very common but much of it may not be recognised due to subtle symptoms.

A common question from patients to podiatrists are “how do you put up with all those smelly feet?” reflecting the belief that foot odour is a common issue. In truth, as most podiatrists know, most feet don’t really smell – but a few do! This article examines the science behind smelly feet and its management.

The CUBED App is a tool developed for use by UK podiatrists to support decision making when assessing lesions on the foot.

Scabies is on the rise again. How does it present on the foot?

The first DERMfoot UK event was held in October and was a great success, for all healthcare professionals looking after feet.

Melanoma incidence and mortality rates have been examined for a 19 year period showing some interesting trends

Can the HPV vaccine really treat warts and verrucae? This blog investigates.

Medications can provoke skin disease. This blog explores common antihypertensive medications that can provoke eczema in the elderly

A genital skin problem which can manifest on the foot and leg, Lichen Sclerosus is something podiatrists may not be aware of.

What is Melanonychia? Melanonychia, a term derived from the Greek "Melas" (meaning black or brown) and "Onyx" (meaning nail), describes...

How can we improve detection of acral lentiginous melanoma on the foot? This blog looks at the evidence and suggests practical methods that can be implemented in clinic.

How common is athletes foot or tinea pedis in children? This article investigates,

This blog describes how to perform a wet wrap on the feet, a gentle treatment for hyperkeratosis