Chemotherapy-Associated Alterations In Foot Skin Microbiota And Their Clinical Implications

Ayşegül Sarpkaya

doi:10.5281/zenodo.15775736

Authors

Ayşegül Sarpkaya Harran Üniversitesi https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8479-0235

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15775736

Keywords:

Chemotherapy, Dermatological Complications, Foot Skin, Immunosuppression, Microbiota

Abstract

Chemotherapy-induced immunosuppression adversely affects not only systemic defense mechanisms but also disrupts the balance of skin microbiota, thereby facilitating the development of cutaneous complications in oncology patients. This review focuses on the alterations observed in the foot skin microbiota, the associated opportunistic pathogen colonization, and their clinical implications. Conditions such as tinea pedis, onychomycosis, intertrigo, and hand-foot syndrome are highlighted as being closely linked to microbiota imbalances. In addition to conventional antimicrobial therapies, the effectiveness of novel approaches—such as microbiota-friendly topical agents, photodynamic therapy, and antiseptic foot baths—is discussed. The article underscores the need to develop multidisciplinary foot care algorithms and highlights the strategic importance of maintaining skin barrier integrity for infection control, wound healing, and quality of life. It concludes by emphasizing the necessity to increase awareness and encourage molecular-level research focused specifically on foot microbiota in oncology care.

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