Related Experiment Videos
White piedra: ultrastructure and a new microecological aspect
H L de Almeida Júnior1, E A Rivitti, R G Jaeger
1Department of Dermatology, University of São Paulo, Brazil.
Mycoses
|September 1, 1990
Summary
White piedra, a fungal infection of hair shafts caused by Trichosporon beigelii, can occur in the inguinal fold. Similar fungal nodules found on underwear may explain treatment failures and highlight the need for improved hygiene.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- White piedra is a superficial fungal infection affecting hair shafts worldwide.
- It is caused by the yeast Trichosporon beigelii.
- The infection can manifest on hair from any body region.
Observation:
- A case of white piedra on inguinal fold hair was investigated using ultrastructural studies.
- Transmission electron microscopy revealed fungal nodules with hyphae and arthrospores, plus a unique cementant substance.
- Scanning electron microscopy visualized spore elimination from nodule surfaces.
Findings:
- Ultrastructural analysis confirmed the fungal nature of the white piedra nodules.
- Scanning electron microscopy identified similar fungal nodules on the patient's cotton underwear fibers.
- The presence of fungal elements on clothing provides a potential source of reinfection.
Implications:
- The contamination of clothing with Trichosporon beigelii can lead to persistent or recurrent infections.
- This finding underscores the importance of addressing environmental factors, such as clothing hygiene, in treating white piedra.
- Effective management may require specific hygienic measures targeting textiles to prevent therapeutic failure.