Page 27 - LECTURE NOTES

3.7. Superficial fungal infection of the skin

Superficial fungal infections of the skin are one of the most common dermatologic

conditions seen in clinical practice. Therefore, recognition is important for primary care
physicians. However, making the correct diagnosis can be difficult, because these

infections can have an atypical presentation or be confused with similar-appearing
conditions.

Superficial fungal infections can be divided into three broad categories: dermatophytic
infections, Pityriasis versicolor and cutaneous candidasis

3.7.1. Dermatophytes

Specifically Trichophyton, Epidermophyton and Microsporum species, are responsible

for most superficial fungal infections. The term "Tinea" refers exclusively to
dermatophyte infections.

Dividing infections into the body region most often affected can help in identification of
the problem.

3.7.2. Tinea Capitis
Tinea capitis is a dermatophytic infection of the head and scalp, usually found in

infants, children, and young adolescents. Most infections occur in preschool-aged
children. Around puberty, sebum production by sebaceous glands becomes active,

and as a result, it tends to disappear.

Commonest presentation is scaly patches on the scalp with variable degree of hair
loss and generalized scaling that resembles seborrhic dermatitis may occur on the

scalp. Cervical lymphadenopathy can occur when there is secondary bacterial
infection.

Keroin is a form of Tinea capitis with accentuated inflammatory response. It is boggy,
nodular tender mass which may form pus.

An unusual scaling reaction known as favus may give the scalp a waxy or doughy
appearance with thick crusted areas.

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