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Fungal foot infections, including tinea pedis and onychomycosis, are an increasingly common concern among children and adolescents. Although traditionally associated with adulthood, studies indicate a rising incidence in younger age groups—mainly due to prolonged use of closed footwear, sports practice, and extended exposure to humid environments (Arenas & Ruiz-Esmenjaud, 2004; Oliveira, 2024).

Prevalence and Risk Factors

Fungal infections of the feet affect a significant portion of the paediatric population. Research shows that 46.2% of infections in children are linked to parental transmission, and 65% of close family members of infected individuals also present with tinea pedis or onychomycosis (Arenas & Ruiz-Esmenjaud, 2004).

The main risk factors include:

• Fungal-friendly environments – locker rooms, swimming pools, and damp sneakers.

• Familial and community transmission – direct contact or sharing personal items.

• Hormonal changes – impact on sebaceous production and skin barrier function.
   

Differential Diagnosis

Clinical assessment should be supported by laboratory tests to confirm the diagnosis and identify the fungal agent:

• Direct microscopy with KOH – for rapid detection of fungal hyphae.

• Fungal culture – essential to identify the specific pathogen.

• PCR – a highly sensitive and specific diagnostic tool.

Tinea pedis may be confused with dyshidrotic eczema, and onychomycosis can resemble nail thickening from trauma, making accurate diagnosis critical for effective treatment.
 

Therapeutic Approach

Treatment should be tailored to the infection’s severity and location:

• Localized cases such as onychomycosis – topical and/or systemic antifungal therapy.

• Extensive or resistant cases – systemic antifungal medication.

Adjunctive use of BioFeet® Gotas and BioFeet® Creme enhances antifungal action, aiding in fungal load reduction.
 

Prevention and Control

Prevention is based on reducing risk factors and strengthening the skin barrier:

• Daily hygiene – wash and thoroughly dry feet.

• Humidity control – use of BioFeet® Powder to absorb sweat and protect skin integrity.

• Avoid sharing shoes and socks – essential to prevent reinfection.

• Footwear hygiene – BioFeet® Spray can help balance skin microbiota and prevent recurrent infections.

Fungal infections are an increasing concern during adolescence and demand a structured preventive and therapeutic approach.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to avoid complications and relapses. Hygiene habits and the use of specialised podiatric products significantly contribute to foot health in this age group.
 

References:

Arenas, R., & Ruiz-Esmenjaud, J. (2004). Onicomicose na infância: revisão do tratamento. Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia, 79(2), 225-232.

Oliveira, J. L. P. de M. (2024). Dermatofitoses em crianças com idade escolar no Brasil: Uma revisão integrativa. Universidade Federal de Pernambuco.