Eye of a partridge: what is it?

The eye-of-partridge or horn soft, is hyperkeratosis (thickening of the epidermis) of the foot which results from friction between two toes. Unsightly color whitish, it consists of a black point in the center, limited to the outside by a zone inflammatory red (eye-of-partridge). This layer of dead skin is organized into a cone hard that penetrates the deep part of the skin and thus causes pains especially during walking. Benin, it can become infected due to the sweat interdigital, or even turn into a wound that is difficult to heal, especially in people diabetics.

Mechanism of formation of a partridge eye

The skin is a covering and protective organ comprising three layers, the outermost of which is theepidermis. With a renewal rate of 28 days, it is mainly composed of cells making a protein fibrous, keratin which protects against UV rays, sea ​​water and various natural aggressions. In the physiological process, the keratinocytes migrate from the basal layer of the epidermis to the surface, die and are replaced by a phenomenon of natural desquamation.

The friction or pressure result in inflammation local which increases the renewal of keratinocytes for the benefit of their desquamation. An imbalance sets in, the dead cells loaded with keratin are too numerous, accumulate and cause hyperkeratosis at the origin of partridge eye.

Causes and treatment of partridge eye

The typical location is between the fourth and fifth toe due to the phenomena of compression and friction. Generally, wearing shoes that are too tight, the shape of the foot (hallus valgus), poor support (in the elderly) or excessive sports practice can be responsible for these friction causing microtraumas. The thickening of the affected area is a consequence of these repeated attacks.

The treatment consists of softening the area with hot water baths before proceeding with the extraction (sanding, pedicure treatments). Orthoplasty or toe orthoses, a custom-made device, by relieving the pressure between the toes, relieves pain and prevents hyperkeratosis.