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Published on: November 6, 2019

Pathogenesis of dermatophytosis and tinea versicolor

Luis J Mendez-Tovar1

  • 1Laboratory of Dermatology and Medical Mycology Research, Specialties Hospital, National Medical Center, IMSS, Apdo postal A-032, Coahuila No 5 Col Roma, 06703, México, DF, México. ljmt@servidor.unam.mx

Clinics in Dermatology
|March 30, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Dermatophytoses are fungal skin infections. Tinea versicolor, caused by Malassezia yeasts, presents as hypopigmented spots due to sunlight stimulating azelaic acid production.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Dermatology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Dermatophytoses are fungal infections of keratinized tissues caused by dermatophytes.
  • Infection involves fungal contact, adherence, and invasion of skin layers.
  • Severity is influenced by the fungal agent, environment, and host immunity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the pathogenesis of dermatophytoses.
  • To explain the etiology and clinical presentation of Tinea versicolor.
  • To discuss factors influencing fungal overgrowth and lesion appearance.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on dermatophyte and Malassezia infections.
  • Analysis of factors contributing to fungal overgrowth.
  • Explanation of the biochemical pathway leading to hypopigmentation.

Main Results:

  • Dermatophyte infections require specific steps for invasion.
  • Tinea versicolor results from Malassezia spp. overgrowth due to various factors.
  • Sunlight exposure triggers azelaic acid production, causing hypopigmented lesions.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding fungal infection mechanisms is crucial for treatment.
  • Tinea versicolor pathogenesis involves yeast overgrowth and UV-induced pigment changes.
  • Further research is needed to explain hyperpigmented lesions in Tinea versicolor.

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