Which tinea infection is referred to as athlete's foot?

Tinea pedis is the medical term for athlete's foot, which is a fungal infection that primarily affects the skin on the feet. This infection is often characterized by itching, burning, and peeling of the skin, particularly between the toes and on the soles of the feet.

Athlete's foot commonly occurs in individuals who frequently use communal showers, swimming pools, or locker rooms, where the fungus thrives in warm, damp environments. Recognizing tinea pedis is important for appropriate treatment, which may include antifungal creams, powders, and good foot hygiene.

In contrast, tinea corporis refers to fungal infections on the body, tinea capitis affects the scalp, and tinea cruris involves the groin area (often called "jock itch"). Each of these infections has different locations and presentations, making it crucial to identify tinea pedis specifically as athlete's foot.