ringworm Flashcards
what is ringworm otherwise known as?
tinea
dermatophytosis
where does ringworm usually infect?
the skin, hair and nails
what ringworm is the common in adults worldwide?
tinea pedis
what ringworm is most common in children worldwide?
tinea capitis
what is the pathogenesis of ringworm?
produce enzymes which digest keratin present in the skin, hair and nails
unable to penetrate deeper layers
what is the non-specific host defence mechanisms?
keratinocytes secrete inhibitory cytokines
serum inhibitory factor takes iron from the fungi
activate complement pathway which inhibit fungal growth
polymorphonuclear leukocytes inhibit fungal growth
what are the general symptoms of ringworm infection?
itchy skin
ring shaped rash
red, scaly, cracked skin
hair loss
what specimen type is needed for ringworm diagnosis?
skin scraping
hair
nail
how is microscopy used in the diagnosis of ringworm?
lactophenol cotton blue microscopy
what are the three components of lactophenol blue microscopy prep?
phenol (kills any live organisms) lactic acid (preserved fungal structures) cotton blue (stains chitin in cell wals)
what selective medium is used in ringworm diagnosis? what conditions are needed?
sabouraud dextrose agar with chloraphenicol
sabouraud dextrose agar with cycloheximide
temp = 26 to 30
in air
7 to 21 days
what differential media is used in the diagnosis of ringworm? what conditions are needed?
dermatophyte test medium
temp = 26 to 30
in air
for 4 to 7 days
what treatments can be used for ringworm infection?
antifungal creams/ powders
antifungal drugs
how can you prevent ringworm infection?
keep skin clean and dry
dont walk barefoot in changing rooms or public showers
wash hands after touching pets and animals
dont share towels, sports gear or other personal items
change underwear and socks daily
