What is tinea pedis commonly known as?

Tinea pedis is commonly known as athlete's foot. This condition is a fungal infection that primarily affects the skin between the toes and can spread to the soles of the feet. The name "athlete's foot" comes from its prevalence among athletes, particularly due to the environments where they may experience increased moisture, such as locker rooms and swimming pools. The fungi that cause tinea pedis thrive in warm, damp areas, making the foot an ideal site for infection, especially if proper hygiene is not maintained.

In contrast, nail fungus refers specifically to fungal infections affecting the nails themselves and is distinct from tinea pedis. Paronychia is an infection of the skin surrounding the nails, while an ingrown toenail occurs when the edges of the toenail grow into the surrounding skin, causing pain and potential infection. Each of these conditions is different in terms of symptoms, causes, and locations on the body, which underscores why tinea pedis specifically corresponds to the term athlete's foot.