Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

Podoconiosis is a form of lymphoedema that occurs in tropical highland areas in genetically susceptible individuals who are exposed to irritant volcanic soils. The disease is preventable through consistent use of footwear and attention to foot hygiene; however, in endemic areas there is a strong barefoot tradition, and many cannot afford shoes. Patients with podoconiosis face significant physical disability, psychological comorbidity, reduced quality of life and experience frequent episodes of systemic illness due to acute dermatolymphangioadenitis. This review provides an overview of this important and neglected tropical skin disease and summarizes the latest research findings.

Original publication

DOI

10.1159/000506045

Type

Journal

Dermatology (Basel, Switzerland)

Publication Date

01/2021

Volume

237

Pages

236 - 247

Addresses

Dermatology Department, Brighton General Hospital, Brighton and Sussex University Hospital NHS Trust, Brighton, United Kingdom, davidchandler1@nhs.net.

Keywords

Humans, Elephantiasis, Genetic Predisposition to Disease, Mental Health, Cost of Illness, Shoes, Africa South of the Sahara, Central America, South America, Asia, Southeastern, Social Stigma, Neglected Diseases, Clay