Trichomycosis Nodosa

Question 1

What is Trichomycosis Nodosa primarily characterized by?

Answer 1

Trichomycosis Nodosa is primarily characterized by the colonization of hair shafts by bacteria, resulting in nodular masses on the hair.

Question 2

Which bacterium is commonly associated with Trichomycosis Nodosa?

Answer 2

Corynebacterium species are commonly associated with Trichomycosis Nodosa.

Question 3

What are the three color variations of Trichomycosis Nodosa and what causes them?

Answer 3

The three color variations are Trichomycosis Nodosa Flava (yellow), Rubra (red), and Nigra (black), caused by the production of different pigments by Corynebacterium.

Question 4

How does Corynebacteria adhere to hair in Trichomycosis Nodosa?

Answer 4

Corynebacteria produce a cement-like substance that facilitates their adherence to hair shafts.

Question 5

What test is used to differentiate Trichomycosis Nodosa from fungal infections like tinea capitis?

Answer 5

Culture tests that identify the specific pathogen involved are used to differentiate Trichomycosis Nodosa from fungal infections.

Question 6

What is a common symptom of Trichomycosis Nodosa and what causes it?

Answer 6

A common symptom is a foul or rancid odor, which is due to the metabolism of testosterone and other hormones in apocrine sweat by Corynebacteria.

Question 7

How can Trichomycosis Nodosa be prevented from recurring after treatment?

Answer 7

Preventative measures include maintaining good hygiene, using antibacterial soap, applying antiperspirants, and regularly shaving the affected areas.

Question 8

What is the role of electron microscopy in the diagnosis of Trichomycosis Nodosa?

Answer 8

Electron microscopy can reveal the destruction of the hair shaft cuticle and the superficial portions of the hair cortex, which is indicative of Trichomycosis Nodosa.

Question 9

What differential diagnoses should be considered when assessing for Trichomycosis Nodosa?

Answer 9

Differential diagnoses may include conditions such as piedra, pediculosis, and artifacts from deodorants or other substances adhering to the hair.

Question 10

What psychological impacts can Trichomycosis Nodosa have on patients?

Answer 10

Like many conditions affecting personal appearance, Trichomycosis Nodosa can lead to psychological effects such as reduced self-esteem and social anxiety due to its aesthetic and olfactory symptoms.

Question 11

What is trichomyosis nodosa, and what is its more accurate term?

Answer 11

Trichomyosis nodosa, now more accurately referred to as trichobacteriosis, is a bacterial infestation of the hair, primarily associated with the Corynebacterium species.

Question 12

What are the common sites affected by trichobacteriosis?

Answer 12

It’s traditionally associated with the axillary region (Trichomycosis Axillaris) and can extend to the pubic area (Trichomycosis Pubis). Rarely, it’s observed in scalp hair and the perianal region.

Question 13

What are the clinical manifestations of Trichobacteriosis?

Answer 13

Primary symptoms include the formation of nodular clumps on hair shafts, an unpleasant odour, and possibly pruritus in the affected areas. The skin around the affected hair can appear erythematous or inflamed.

Question 14

What bacteria is predominantly associated with Trichobacteriosis?

Answer 14

It is predominantly associated with Corynebacterium tenuis, also referred to as Corynebacterium Flavescens.

Question 15

What conditions increase susceptibility to Trichobacteriosis?

Answer 15

Suboptimal hygiene practices and hyperhidrosis (excessive perspiration) increase susceptibility to rapid proliferation of Corynebacterium.

Question 16

What is the role of bacterial biofilm in Trichobacteriosis pathophysiology?

Answer 16

The bacteria produce biofilms that adhere to hair shafts, protecting the bacteria and contributing to the characteristic ‘beaded’ appearance and malodorous scent of affected hair.

Question 17

How is Trichobacteriosis diagnosed?

Answer 17

Diagnosis involves clinical presentation, Wood’s Light Examination, direct microscopy, and dermoscopy, along with a medical history and understanding of the patient’s hygiene practices.

Question 18

What are some differential diagnoses for Trichobacteriosis?

Answer 18

Differential diagnoses include Piedra (White and Black), Tinea infections, Folliculitis, Fox-Fordyce Disease, and accumulation of sebum or deodorant residue.

Question 19

What are the treatment options for Trichobacteriosis?

Answer 19

Treatment includes topical antibiotics like Clindamycin or Erythromycin, oral antibiotics in severe cases, and maintaining impeccable personal hygiene.

Question 20

What are the prevention strategies for Trichobacteriosis?

Answer 20

Strategies include regular cleansing, using breathable clothing, staying dry, using antiperspirants, changing clothing regularly, and possibly dietary considerations.

Question 21

What is the conclusion about Trichomycosis in terms of its clinical approach?

Answer 21

While trichomycosis is a distinctive condition characterised by bacterial colonisation of hair shafts, a comprehensive clinical approach is essential for accurate identification and management.