Table 1.

Categories used to describe food pad alterations.

Category	Definition
0	No abnormality detected, surface of the plantar skin shows no alterations, reticulate scales arranged actinomorphic symmetrically, covering the whole plantar surface
1	Hyperkeratosis, moderate hypertrophy of the plantar skin, reticulate scales are elongated and/or separated, but not discolored, elevation in the center of the metatarsal foot pad
2	High-grade hyperkeratosis with crusts of adhesive dirt that are not detachable without damage of the plantar skin, increased tendency to bleed on manipulation
3	Epithelial necrosis, superficial lesions, reddish-brown discoloration of the reticulate scales, extensive necrotic areas
4	Deep lesions of the plantar skin, ablation of the epidermis with crater formation