What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Atopic Winter Feet
• Forefoot Dermatitis
• Wet and Dry Foot Syndrome

What is Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis (JPD) is a common and chronic skin condition that affects one’s feet. It is predominantly observed in young children. In this condition, the plantar aspect (sole) of the feet present red sores that develop into painful cracks, giving the skin a glazed appearance
• Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis is believed to be caused by a combination of factors that include one’s genetic makeup, type of footwear, and hot/cold seasons. Often, both feet are affected
• The condition may be diagnosed clinically (based on observation of the feet and medical history evaluation). With adequate treatment, which includes proper foot care, Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis is known to resolve in most children

Who gets Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis is generally seen in young children and adolescents in the 3 to 14 years age group (mean age of 8 years)
• Occasionally, it may be observed in adults
• Both males and females are affected, but a slight predilection for boys is noted
• The condition is observed worldwide among all racial and ethnic groups

What are the Risk Factors for Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis? (Predisposing Factors)

Some of the factors associated with Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis include:

• Genetic factors making an individual more susceptible to the condition
• Use of synthetic (and covered) footwear that restrict adequate ventilation to the feet
• Constant friction between the feet and the inner surfaces of one’s footwear/shoes
• Individuals who sweat excessively, which then dry up quickly and cause cracking of the skin
• Hot summer months and cold winter months are also known to contribute towards formation of this skin condition

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis formation is unknown
• It is believed to occur due to a combination of factors such as frictional forces, blocked sweat glands from restrictive footwear, one’s genetic sensitivity, and excess sweating, influenced by hot summer and cold winter seasons

The involvement of underlying conditions such as asthma, atopic dermatitis, or hay fever is not confirmed.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis?

The signs and symptoms of Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis may be mild or severe and vary from one individual to another. These may include:

• Presence of sore feet that are often itchy
• The feet present a glazed appearance
• The skin color may be red (erythematous)
• Both the feet may be uniformly affected; the sores are mostly noted on the weight bearing points of the feet (soles)
• The ball of the feet is usually not affected
• Over time, the skin may form fissures and cracks that are painful
• Large and thick patches of skin, postage stamp size, can separate and peel off
• Pain upon walking, difficulty walking
• This may lead to dry scaly skin
• Occasionally, the palms of the hands and fingertips may be affected

How is Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis Diagnosed?

The following tests and exams may be used in diagnosing Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis:

• Evaluating the clinical history (physical exam) and a thorough family history
• Dermoscopy: It is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the healthcare provider examines the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the change in skin pigmentation
• KOH tests to rule out a fungal infection
• Skin tissue biopsy (if necessary): A skin tissue biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis?

The possible complications from Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis may include:

• Emotional stress
• Cracked feet may present severe pain, which may take months to heal
• Secondary bacterial or fungal infections may develop at the affected skin site

How is Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis Treated?

There are no well-defined treatment measures available for Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis. However, the healthcare provider may consider the following treatments:

• Recommend well-adjusted and breathable non-synthetic shoes/footwear that are comfortable and friction-less
• Wear cotton socks and change socks frequently
• Application of suitable moisturizing creams on the feet
• Taking adequate rest, giving time for the feet condition to heal
• Use of suitable topical creams for cracked feet
• Topical steroids and tacrolimus
• Clear Castellani’s paint

How can Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis be Prevented?

There are no clearly established preventive measures for Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis. However, the following factors may help lower one’s risk for the condition:

• Use non-synthetic and well-fitting shoes
• Use socks made of cotton or wool
• Take adequate care of one’s feet

What is the Prognosis of Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis is generally good; the condition is known to resolve spontaneously
• However, in some children, the condition may become chronic and persist into adulthood

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis:

Please visit our Skin Care Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/skin-disorders/