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Published on: December 15, 2011
Trichophyton rubrum skin infection in two premature infants
Malcolm R Battin1, Elizabeth M Wilson
1National Women's Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand.
Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health
|July 15, 2005
Abstract:
Trichophyton rubrum is a dermatophyte that causes tinea infection in adults and children but infection is surprisingly rare in the preterm infant. We present two cases of T. rubrum infection in preterm infants, in which mother-to-child transmission appears to have occurred. We describe the clinical features, differential diagnosis, appropriate investigation and management of this condition.
Insights
Trichophyton rubrum infections, typically seen in adults and children, are rare in preterm infants. This study highlights two cases of mother-to-child transmission of this fungal infection in neonates.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Neonatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Trichophyton rubrum is a common cause of superficial fungal infections (tinea) in immunocompetent individuals.
- Tinea infections are well-documented in adults and older children.
- Infection by T. rubrum in preterm infants is exceptionally rare, with limited reported cases.
Observation:
- Two cases of preterm infants diagnosed with T. rubrum infection are presented.
- Clinical presentation and diagnostic findings are detailed for each case.
- Evidence suggests a potential mother-to-child transmission route for the infection.
Findings:
- The study identifies T. rubrum as a causative agent in neonatal fungal infections.
- Mother-to-child transmission is a plausible route for T. rubrum acquisition in preterm neonates.
- The clinical course, diagnostic workup, and therapeutic strategies for neonatal T. rubrum infection are described.
Implications:
- This research expands the understanding of dermatophyte infections in a vulnerable neonatal population.
- Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial for favorable outcomes in preterm infants with T. rubrum.
- Highlights the importance of considering T. rubrum in the differential diagnosis of skin lesions in neonates, especially with maternal history.
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