Differential Diagnosis for Peeling Feet
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Athlete's foot (tinea pedis): This is a common fungal infection that can cause peeling of the skin on the feet, especially between the toes. It's often accompanied by itching, redness, and cracking of the skin.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Dry skin (xerosis): Dryness can lead to peeling, especially on the heels and soles of the feet. This condition can be exacerbated by cold weather, harsh soaps, or inadequate moisturizing.
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis): This is a chronic skin condition characterized by itchy, inflamed skin that can peel. On the feet, it might be more localized and can be triggered by various factors including allergens or irritants.
- Psoriasis: A chronic autoimmune condition that speeds up the life cycle of skin cells, causing cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin. The extra skin cells form scales and red patches that can peel.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Kawasaki disease: Although rare and more commonly associated with children, Kawasaki disease can cause peeling of the skin on the hands and feet, among other symptoms like fever, rash, and lymph node swelling. It's crucial to diagnose early to prevent cardiac complications.
- Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) or Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS): These are severe skin conditions usually triggered by medications. They can cause widespread skin peeling and detachment, which can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
- Rare diagnoses
- Pemphigus: A group of rare skin disorders that cause blistering of the skin and mucous membranes. In some forms, it can lead to peeling of the skin.
- Keratolysis exfoliativa (lamellar dyshidrosis): A rare condition characterized by recurrent episodes of peeling of the skin on the palms and soles, often without any other symptoms.
- Acral peeling syndrome: A rare genetic disorder that causes recurrent peeling of the skin on the hands and feet, typically starting in infancy.