Page 111 - Community pharmcy practice E-book 2025
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Dermatophyte Infections
Introduction
A dermatophyte infection is a common, contagious fungal infection that affects the
skin, hair, or nails
Also known as ringworm or tinea
Symptoms include a red, itchy, scaly, or circular rash with clear centers and red, scaly
borders
Most often, tinea infections are named according to the area of the body that is affected
Scalp [tinea capitis] Body [tinea
corporis] Feet [tinea pedis]
Nails [tinea unguium]
Triggering Factors
In addition to specific fungi, other environmental factors, such as climate and social
customs, contribute to dermatophytosis development
Increasing temperature and hydration of the skin, which interferes with the barrier function
of the stratum corneum, leading to tinea development
Other factors associated with the development of tinea infections include
diabetes and other autoimmune diseases, use of immunosuppressive drugs, impaired
circulation, and poor nutrition and hygiene
Common Types of Dermatophytosis
1. Tinea Pedis (Athlete's Foot)
Intertriginous, Moccasin, Vesicular
Intertriginous
Most common type: Skin between the toes is macerated (soggy), whitened and thick
with a foul odour and intense pruritic.
Moccasin
Hyperkeratotic tinea pedis that affects the sole and sides of the foot, appearing as a scaling
and thickening of the skin in a slipper-like pattern.
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