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Primary localized cutaneous nodular amyloidosis (PLCNA) is a rare disorder that manifests as the cutaneous formation of nodules composed of light-chain amyloid. Although the type of amyloid deposit is similar to primary systemic amyloidosis, there seems to be little, if any, crossover between the 2 diseases. Because reports of PLCNA are sparse, there is no established protocol for treating this disease. This case report presents a 42-year-old man with a visually striking presentation of PLCNA on both feet with some of the lesions possibly being secondary to trauma, a rare phenomenon. The lesions had been present for more than 4 years, and there were no signs or symptoms of systemic amyloidosis. The lesions responded well to a combination of complete curettage followed by CO2; laser ablation. Primary localized cutaneous nodular amyloidosis is rare and difficult to treat, with high rates of recurrence and a concern for progression to systemic amyloidosis. The diagnosis, workup, treatment, and monitoring of PLCNA also are discussed.

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a skin infection caused by the double-stranded DNA virus of the family Poxviridae that typically presents as flesh-colored asymptomatic umbilicated papules. Plantar MC is uncommon. We describe a 23-year-old man who presented with multiple plantar MC. We also summarize the epidemiologic features of the 34 previously reported patients with plantar MC and discuss the clinical characteristics, differential diagnosis, and treatment of plantar MC. The patients were immunocompetent and the median age at diagnosis was 21 years. Although the plantar MC were asymptomatic in some individuals, a common presenting symptom was pain while walking. Patients had 1 lesion (23/35), 2 lesions (5/35), 3 lesions (4/35), or more than 5 lesions (3/35). Giant MC (>or=1 cm in diameter) was observed in more than 75% (a minimum of 27/35) of patients. At the initial patient evaluation, plantar verruca often was suspected; subsequently, light and/or electron microscopy of the plantar lesion confirmed the diagnosis of plantar MC. Removal or destruction of the lesion resulted in definitive treatment of the plantar MC.

Many patients with onychomycosis of the toes respond satisfactorily to standard treatment regimens using the newer antifungal agents terbinafine and itraconazole. However, in some situations supplemental or "booster" therapy consisting of extra antifungal or adjunctive surgical therapy may be beneficial. We review here some instances in which this is appropriate, as well as strategies to reduce recurrence of onychomycosis.

A method for treating plantar warts is described in which the plantar wart is planed down weekly by very thin, repetitive slices using an Enders single edge razor blade and a prepared solution is applied. The treatment usually takes less than three minutes, is painless, harmless, not incapacitating, acceptable to the patient, and cures at about the same rate as other treatments described in the literature.

In general, painful feet can affect the performance of an athlete in any sport. To prevent skin diseases of the feet, the "Athlete's Foot" should be kept clean and dry with toenails trimmed. Properly fitting athletic shoes should be worn to avoid the formation of blisters. Wearing of sandals in locker and shower rooms, which prevents intimate contact with infecting organisms, can alleviate many of the problems that affect the feet.