Foot Rash and Bumps

Content provided by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School

Foot Rash and Bumps

Question:

I have little lumps on the bottom of my foot which are very itchy. What is this?

Answer:

There are a number of conditions that could cause itchy bumps and lumps on the bottom of your foot. One of the most common is tinea pedis, or athlete's foot. This is caused by a fungus. It appears as pink scaling patches, bumps, and sometimes pink blisters.

Another condition that could cause itchy bumps is dyshidrotic eczema, a type of recurrent dermatitis of unknown cause that results in tiny blisters (vesicles) that itch or burn.

Another cause of itchy feet is contact dermatitis, where itchy lumps and fluid-filled blisters may erupt when feet come in contact with something that causes skin irritation or a localized allergic reaction.

These are only some of many potential causes of itchy lumps and bumps on the feet. Treatment differs depending upon the diagnosis. It is therefore important to be examined by your doctor for correct diagnosis and treatment.

Rebecca Campen, M.D., J.D. is an Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School. She divides her time between clinical practice of dermatology at the Massachusetts General Hospital and private practice in Savannah, Ga.

Last updated:	July 20, 2009