Randomized, within-patient, clinical trial comparing fluorine-synthetic fiber socks with standard cotton socks in improving plantar pustulosis.

Background/aims: Rubbing the skin may influence the persistence of pustulosis over time. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of a new fabric made with fluorine-synthetic fiber in improving plantar pustulosis.

Methods: A total of 17 patients were randomized to receive on one side a sock made of fluorine-synthetic fiber and on the other a sock made of cotton fabric for 4 weeks. The main outcome was the percentage reduction of lesional area at week 4.

Results: The median lesion reduction at week 4 was 42.6% in the fluorine-synthetic fiber arm and 2.7% in the cotton arm (p = 0.148). Among secondary outcomes, the overall reduction over time in the treated areas was significantly in favor of the fluorine-synthetic fiber arm (p = 0.045) as well as the perception of the disease by the patient (p = 0.025).

Conclusion: Despite the fact that the primary outcome was not reached, there was a tangible reduction in the extension of the treated areas and in the perception of the disease by the patient.