Fungal Infections Health Article

FUNGAL INFECTIONS

Fungal infections of the skin are among today's most common infectious diseases, and they occur worldwide. Superficial fungus infections fall into three broad categories: the dermatophytes (ringworm), tinea versicolor, and cutaneous candidiasis (yeast infection).

Tinea Corporis (Ringworm of the Skin). The typical lesion is an itchy, round or oval patch of skin with central clearing and a red scaly margin— hence the name "ringworm." If it occurs in the groin, it is called "jock itch" or "tinea cruris." If there are only two or three rings of infection, topical therapy with antifungal creams will be sufficient. For widespread infection, oral antifungal pills may be necessary.

Tinea Capitis (Fungal Infection of the Hair). Fungal infections of the scalp are most common in children. The infection presents as round scaly patches of hair loss, often with broken-off stubbly hairs. The infection must be treated with oral antifungal therapies. The prognosis is excellent and shaving the scalp is not necessary.

Tinea Pedis (Fungus of the Feet, or Athlete's Foot). Tinea pedis is the most common type of fungal infection, presenting as itchy, scaling, and/or macerated webspaces. There may be a powdery white scaling of the bottom of the feet. Sometimes the infection presents as blisters on the bottom of the feet. The infection can spread to the groin (tinea cruris). Topical antifungals will cure the webspace infections but oral antifungals are necessary to treat the blistering infections. Afflicted individuals should keep their feet dry and spray their shoes with antifungal sprays.

Tinea of the Nails (Onychomycosis). Toenails are more commonly affected than fingernails. The nail becomes opaque, yellowish, thickened, and crumbly with the accumulation of material under the nail. There may be an associated athlete's foot infection. Oral antifungals are necessary to cure the problem.

Candidiasis (Yeast Infections). Yeast infections occur in closed spaces on the skin, such as the corner of the mouth, under breasts, in armpits, and in the groin. It is a red, moist, and often odorous tender rash, and is more severe in patients taking antibiotics or who have systemic diseases such as diabetes. Heat and sweat aggravate the problem. Candidiasis can also occur in the mouth (oral thrush) or as a yeast vaginitis. Treatment is with topical antiyeast creams and/or oral medication. To prevent recurrence, the area must be kept dry.

Tinea Versicolor. Tinea versicolor presents on the upper trunk—as brown spots in the winter and white spots in the summer. It is easily treated by washing the area with antidandruff shampoos, but the therapy must be repeated monthly to prevent recurrence.

SUSAN SWIGGUM

JOHN ADAM