What is Tinea Manuum?
Tinea manuum is a dermatophytic infection of the palm of the hands. It is relatively uncommon, and almost always occurs in patient’s that also have tinea pedis (athlete’s foot). It usually only involves one hand, giving rise to the “one hand, two feet” syndrome of tinea manuum plus tinea pedis. It appears as diffuse scaling of the palm, usually with a well-demarcated border.
With what can tinea manuum be confused?
Chronic irritant contact dermatitis can also cause scaling of the palm; however, this condition is usually bilateral. Psoriasis can also effect the palms.
How is tinea manuum treated?
Tinea manuum is treated like other fungal infections of the skin. Topical antifungals are the mainstay of treatment. Oral antifungals, such as terbinafine, are sometimes required.
