Clinical Analysis of 57 Patients With Interdigital Infection for an Entire Year in Shanghai, China

Objective: Interdigital infection, as a neglected disease, is frequently misdiagnosed as simple tinea pedis which caused by purely dermatophyte induced. It remains intractable to treatments because of high recurrence rates and potential complications. However, the optimal diagnosis and treatment regimens have not been firmly established. This study aimed to investigate the presentation, etiology, predisposing factors, occurrence regularity, and therapeutic approaches of interdigital infection in Shanghai, China. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Shanghai Dermatology Hospital for an entire year; 57 patients with acute interdigital inflammation were enrolled. Clinical features and medical histories including blood, bacterial, and mycological examination, culture test, drug susceptibility test results, and follow-up data were analyzed for pathogenic agents. Patients received etiological therapy and were followed up for 1 year. Results: We found Pseudomonas aeruginosa (40.35%), Staphylococcus aureus (36.84%), and other bacteria (22.8%). Compared to other bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa interdigital infection was more inclined to co-infect with fungal agents and was frequently seen in spring and autumn and in patients aged 60–69 years. Interdigital infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus occurred more frequently in the summer and in patients aged 31–40 years. We found that levofloxacin had excellent therapeutic effects for interdigital infection. Conclusion: Our findings may provide important information for establishing diagnostic guidelines and effective treatment, and subsequently, help reduce the rate of recurrence and improve patient outcomes following interdigital infection.