Final answer:
Another term for tinea pedis is 'athlete's foot,' a superficial fungal infection of the skin caused by dermatophytes, particularly when the feet are kept in moist, dark conditions like sweaty shoes or public showers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Another term for tinea pedis is athlete's foot. This condition is a type of superficial cutaneous mycosis, which is caused by a group of fungal molds known as dermatophytes. These organisms, specifically from the genera Trichophyton, Epidermophyton, and Microsporum, require keratin for growth, which is found in skin, hair, and nails. Tinea pedis presents symptoms such as itching, burning, and dry, cracked skin, particularly between the toes. Dermatophytes thrive in moist and dark environments, hence athlete's foot is commonly spread in public showers and might grow well inside sweaty shoes and socks.