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Trichophyton rubrum in the external auditory meatus
W Buzina1, D Lang-Loidolt, G Ginter-Hanselmayer
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Graz Medical University, Auenbruggerplatz, Graz, Austria. walter.buzina@uni-graz.at
Mycoses
|March 5, 2004
Summary
A fungal infection of the ear canal caused by Trichophyton rubrum was successfully treated with clotrimazole. This case highlights the potential for dermatophytes to cause otitis externa in immunocompetent individuals.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Otitis externa, an infection of the outer ear canal, is typically bacterial but can have fungal causes.
- Trichophyton rubrum is a common dermatophyte primarily known for causing skin, hair, and nail infections.
Observation:
- A 28-year-old immunocompetent male presented with otitis externa characterized by fungal overgrowth in the ear canal and on the tympanic membrane.
- Mycological examination identified Trichophyton rubrum as the causative agent.
- The patient also had coexisting tinea pedis and onychomycosis due to the same fungus.
Findings:
- Topical clotrimazole effectively cleared the fungal infection in the external auditory meatus and resolved inflammation.
- The patient's tympanic membrane became free of fungi after treatment.
Implications:
- This case demonstrates that Trichophyton rubrum can cause otitis externa in immunocompetent individuals.
- It underscores the importance of considering dermatophyte infections in refractory or unusual cases of otitis externa.
- Concurrent treatment of cutaneous and nail fungal infections is crucial for complete resolution.