Hot-foot syndrome B96.5

Infection of the skin by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (see under Pseudomonas infections).

A few hours to days after bathing in a pool (e.g., whirlpool) with a high concentration of pseudomonads, a two-dimensional reddening and swelling of the soles of the feet with highly painful 1.0-2.0cm large, red nodules and plaques appear, primarily on the pressure-loaded areas of the soles.

A febrile systemic reaction is possible but rare.

Neutrophilic perivascular and perieccrine infiltrations possibly with dermal microabscesses.

The disease is self-limiting and does not require specific therapy.

1. Fiorillo L et al (2001) The pseudomonas hot-foot syndrome. N Engl J Med 345:335-338
2. Michl RK et al (2012) Outbreak of hot-foot syndrome - caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Clinic Padiatr 224:252-255
3. Zvulunov A et al (2001) Pseudomonas hot-foot syndrome. N Engl J Med 345:1643-1644