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[Facultative and obligate pathogenic moulds in skin affections]
Abstract:
Molds are vegetable microorganisms, which differ from dermatophytes sensitive to griseofulvin, and from yeasts, which do not form aerial mycelium. Most of the molds, phytopathogenic or which live from dead organic substances, are apathogenic to humans. Only a couple of dozen species can parasitize on the skin, usually together with dermatophytes or yeasts. Onychomycoses with molds appear mostly in elderly people, and fungus affections of external auditory passage in seborrheic eczema of the ear. The hair can be infected by Piedraia hortae, resulting in hard black nodules. After the identification of molds on the skin, criticism is necessary, since in more than 95% of the cases they are accidental germs. Several cultures and microscopic tests are necessary to assure the diagnosis. Broad-spectrum antimycotics is the predominant choice for treatment, but also amphotericin B, nystatin and pimaricin.
Insights
Molds are microorganisms that can cause skin infections, particularly in the elderly. Accurate diagnosis requires multiple tests, as most skin molds are harmless contaminants, and treatment involves broad-spectrum antifungals.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Medical Microbiology
- Dermatology
Context:
- Molds are distinct microorganisms, differing from dermatophytes and yeasts.
- While most molds are non-pathogenic to humans, certain species can cause superficial mycoses.
- Skin mold infections are often opportunistic or co-infections, primarily affecting specific populations.
Purpose:
- To differentiate molds from other fungi like dermatophytes and yeasts.
- To highlight the clinical significance and diagnostic challenges of mold infections on the skin.
- To outline current therapeutic strategies for mold-related cutaneous mycoses.
Summary:
- Molds, unlike dermatophytes and yeasts, are microorganisms that can cause skin infections, such as onychomycosis and piedra noir.
- Accurate diagnosis of cutaneous mycoses caused by molds is challenging, requiring multiple cultures and microscopic examinations due to frequent contamination.
- Treatment predominantly involves broad-spectrum antimycotics, with amphotericin B, nystatin, and pimaricin also being used.
Impact:
- Emphasizes the need for rigorous diagnostic procedures to avoid misidentification of molds.
- Informs clinical practice regarding the specific conditions and populations susceptible to mold skin infections.
- Provides an overview of effective antifungal treatments for challenging cutaneous mold infections.