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SCMP Reporter

THIS summer, at least 10 per cent of the territory's population will suffer from Hongkong Foot, a fungal infection so widespread during this time of year that doctors have coined their own name for it.

  According to dermatologist Dr Ronald Leung, Hongkong Foot is the same as Athlete's Foot - or tinea pedis . .

  Tinea fungal infections in general are one of the five most common diseases in Hongkong.

  Hongkong Foot becomes especially prevalent at this time of year because the fungus breeds a ringworm infection where there is moisture, warmth and humidity.

  ''This is why the area between the toes, where it is moist and wet, is an especially common breeding place.

  ''Feet that are constantly covered by socks and shoes in a climate that is hot and humid are bound to attract the disease, and that is why it is so common in Hongkong.''   Tropical environments are trouble spots for people prone to athlete's foot, but Dr Leung said it could often attack unsuspecting victims.

  ''This is peak season for dermatologists as we are seeing a lot of these cases. Actually, the majority of Hongkong Foot cases are managed by general practitioners, but the more difficult patients are often sent to us,'' he said.

  The most common manifestation of the disease is when people start feeling itchy between the toes, and experience dryness, redness and peeling.

  But if the condition worsens, the scaliness extends to the soles, and even the toenails can be quite badly disfigured if they also become infected, leading to a condition called onychomycosis.

  Complications can arise if there is a secondary bacterial infection, where the disease resists treatment and becomes increasingly painful and uncomfortable.

   If the condition is left untreated, Hongkong Foot can result in excessive swelling, and those who catch it can have trouble walking.

  One doctor said many patients did not even realise they had a fungal infection.

  ''Onychomycosis appears as thick, discoloured nails, which a sufferer may assume is just a cosmetic problem or a sign of old age,'' he said.

  Dr Leung said certain groups of people were more prone to the disease, particularly those with poor blood circulation, low immunity and diabetes.

  ''Of course, people who need to walk barefoot a lot, like swimmers and athletes, keep catching it.''   He said there were some basic approaches to eradicating the problem, such as an anti-fungal cream and oral medication - including a new short-term treatment called Lamisil.

  This is specifically for toenail infections - but in some cases the condition may not improve immediately.

  Most cases get better in about four to six weeks, but more difficult conditions, particularly those that involve toenail infections, may take up to a year to clear.

  ''People tend to forget that what they need to do is get rid of the fungus, so it is important for them to be careful.

  ''It is the exposed fungus which is dangerous, and that is everywhere in public places. While some people seem to have immunity and don't get it, others are much more susceptible and continue to catch it every summer. There is no determinant factor.''   People who frequent swimming pools and health clubs with communal changing facilities or who walk around barefoot are most susceptible, so Dr Leung suggests always wearing rubber slippers, washing and drying feet thoroughly, and changing socks at least once a day.

  Studies have also shown that men are more inclined to come into contact with the infection than women.

  ''Proper regard for personal hygiene is the most effective method of prevention. Once you get Hongkong Foot, chances are it will be recurring, so it is just not worth it,'' he said.

  Another doctor has also seen numerous cases of Hongkong Foot in elderly women because of the long-term effects of wearing high heels with pointed toes.

  A visiting specialist from Britain, Dr Roger Allen, a consultant dermatologist from Queen's Medical Centre of the University Hospital in Nottingham, said athletes had to be particularly careful in the summer.

  ''The excessive wearing of sports shoes and thick sports socks promotes the kind of damp, warm environment ideal for fungi to thrive. Footwear should be changed as soon as the game is over, while socks should be changed immediately as they become wet. Absorbent powders between toes and in socks can also be helpful in prevention,'' Dr Allen said.

  Another doctor went so far as to criticise ''Western fashions'' for being a major contributing factor to the high incidence of Hongkong Foot in the territory.

  ''The practice of wearing tight jeans, pantyhose, heavy boots and gym shoes promotes the growth of fungal infections.

  ''Where practical, I would recommend people opt for loose-fitting clothes and open shoes.'' 



Feet first into the summer of discontent