There are actually three different types of Athletes' Foot.
While they are all caused by a genus of ringworm, they all display differently.
The three defined types are: Chronic Interdigital Athlete's Foot (also known as Toe Web Infection), Chronic Scaly Athlete's Foot (also know as Moccasin Type) and Acute Vesicular Athlete's Foot.
The most common type is Chronic Interdigital Athlete's Foot.
It is typically found between the 4th and 5th toes.
The skin becomes moist and white, there might be itching, or burning or even a slight odor.
This is the easiest type to treat.
Chronic Scaly Athlete's Foot often starts with a minor irritation.
It is called Moccasin Type because, as it progresses, the foot can become red and scaly in a pattern resembling a moccasin.
The skin of the foot thickens and begins to crack.
Chronic Scaly Athlete's Foot can be hard to treat and very often needs prescription antifungal medication.
A sudden appearance of blisters is what usually distinguishes Acute Vesicular Athlete's Foot from the other two types.
While it can be severe, it is also easily treated.
Generally, this type of athlete's foot will develop after a long fight with a toe web infection.
All three types are treated with antifungal medications.
Toe Web Infection and Acute Vesicular Athlete's Foot can usually be treated, successfully, with over-the-counter topical creams, sprays, lotions and/or powders.
No matter what type of athlete's foot is present, it must be treated.
The fungus will not go away by itself.
If left untreated, it is possible for a severe infection to set in, requiring prescription antibiotics from a health care professional.