Fungal infections

Question 1

Where do fungal infections commonly occur?

What are the different kinds of dermatophyte infections?

Answer 1

• Fungal infections are common because our skin, nails, and scalp contain keratin, which fungi feed off
• Dermatophyte fungal infections commonly occur in areas of high temperature and humidity, and are easily transferred through body contact, towels, and wet surfaces
• Dermatophyte infections are commonly seen on the scalp (tinea capitis), body surfaces (tinea corporis), groin (tinea cruris, feet (tinea pedis) and nails (tinea unguium.

Question 2

What are symptoms of tinea capitis (ringworm of the scalp)?

How is it normally acquired?

What is the treatment?

Answer 2

Symptoms of tinea capitis (ringworm of the scalp) inlcude scaling and loss of hair on the scalp. More common in children

It is usually due to contact with an infected kitten or, rarely, an older dog or cat

Treatment is with an oral antifungal such as terbinafine or fluconazole, or an antifungal shampoo

Question 3

What are the symptoms of Tinea corporis (ringworm of the body)

Answer 3

Tinea corporis infections usually occur on the trunk or limbs. It is often called ring worm as infection causes a circular, red and itchy rash that looks like a worm under the skin

Edges of the rash are usually raised with an area of clear skin in the middle. Infection can originate from the feet (tinea pedis), or nails (tinea unguium) or from cats, dogs, or cattle

Treatment is with antifungal creams

Question 4

What are the symptoms of Tinea cruris (jock itch)?

Answer 4

Dermatophyte infections of the groin are more common in men than women. Symptoms typically include an intensely itchy, reddish/brown rash with a scaly raised border that spreads down the inner thighs form the groin or scrotum

Treatment is with antifungal creams, lotion, or powders

Question 5

What are some topical antifungals?

Answer 5

• bifonazole
• Clotrimazole
• Ketoconazole
• Miconazole
• terbinafine

terbinafine is fungicidal and can resolve superficial skin infections with once-daly applications.

Most other antifungals are fungistatic and also effective, although more frequent application and longer treatment courses (continuing for one or 2 weeks after the infection has cleared) are required.

Topical mycostatin preparations are not effective against dermatophytes and should only be used to treat candida infections

Each product should be used according to the manufacturers instructions.

Creams are easy to apply. They are good if the skin is moist, because the are water soluble

Lotions are suitable for hairy areas

Spray powders can give even cover on difficult to reach places (eg under breast or groin)

Antifungal creams containing hydrocortisone also calm inflammation