Tinea Corporis Flashcards
What is Tinea?
Tinea is a term given to dermatophyte fungal infections.
Three main types of infection are described: tinea capitis (scalp), tinea corporis (trunk, legs, or arms), and tinea pedis (feet).
What is Tinea capitis?
Tinea capitis, also known as scalp ringworm, is a cause of scarring alopecia mainly seen in children.
If untreated, a raised, pustular, spongy/boggy mass called a kerion may form.
What is the most common cause of Tinea capitis in the UK and USA?
The most common cause is Trichophyton tonsurans.
It may also be caused by Microsporum canis acquired from cats or dogs.
How is Tinea capitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves scalp scrapings, and lesions due to Microsporum canis show green fluorescence under Wood’s lamp.
However, the most useful investigation is scalp scrapings.
What is the management for Tinea capitis?
Management includes oral antifungals: terbinafine for Trichophyton tonsurans infections and griseofulvin for Microsporum infections.
Topical ketoconazole shampoo should be given for the first two weeks to reduce transmission.
What is Tinea corporis?
Tinea corporis, also known as ringworm, is characterized by well-defined annular, erythematous lesions with pustules and papules.
Causes include Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton verrucosum (e.g., from contact with cattle).
How is Tinea corporis treated?
Tinea corporis may be treated with oral fluconazole.
What is Tinea pedis?
Tinea pedis, also known as athlete’s foot, is characterized by itchy, peeling skin between the toes.
It is common in adolescence.
