Which term describes a fungal infection of the skin on the feet?

• A. Onychomycosis/tinea unguium/nail fungus
• B. Tinea pedis/athlete's foot
• C. Bunion/hallux valgus
• D. Hammertoe

Answer: (B)

The term for a fungal infection of the skin on the feet is tinea pedis, commonly called athlete's foot. It specifically affects the skin, often between the toes, and is caused by dermatophyte fungi. The other terms refer to different problems: onychomycosis (tinea unguium) is a fungal infection of the nails, not the skin; bunion (hallux valgus) is a bony misalignment of the big toe; hammertoe is a toe deformity. So tinea pedis best fits a fungal skin infection of the feet.