Case reports. Tinea gladiatorum due to Trichophyton mentagrophytes

Mycoses
|November 8, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Tinea gladiatorum, a fungal infection, was identified in wrestlers. A pet rabbit likely transmitted the infection, which then spread among teammates through close contact.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Tinea gladiatorum is a superficial fungal infection prevalent in combat sports.
  • Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. quinckeanum is a less common dermatophyte species.
  • Zoonotic transmission of dermatophytes is a recognized public health concern.

Observation:

  • Two wrestlers presented with tinea gladiatorum attributed to Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. quinckeanum.
  • A pet rabbit was identified as the probable primary source of infection.
  • The infection subsequently spread through human-to-human contact within the wrestling team.

Findings:

  • Confirmation of Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. quinckeanum as the causative agent in these cases.
  • Evidence supporting zoonotic transmission from a domestic animal to humans.
  • Identification of secondary transmission within a close-contact group (wrestling team).

Implications:

  • Highlights the potential for zoonotic transmission of dermatophytes in athletic populations.
  • Underscores the importance of identifying the primary source in fungal outbreaks.
  • Suggests enhanced hygiene and screening protocols may be necessary in sports settings to prevent spread.

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