[Morphofunctional changes in the skin in foot mycosis]

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Mycology
• Histopathology

Background:

• Intertrichinous mycoses, or fungal infections in skin folds, affect the soles.
• Miners with a history of mycoses were studied due to occupational hazards.
• Control groups of healthy workers provided baseline data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To histologically and histochemically examine intertoe skin folds in patients with mycoses.
• To identify cellular and metabolic changes associated with fungal infections.
• To inform comprehensive treatment strategies for mycoses.

Main Methods:

• Histologic and histochemical examination of 16 cadaveric intertoe fold specimens from mycosis patients.
• Examination of 10 control specimens from healthy individuals.
• Histoenzymologic analysis to assess metabolic processes.

Main Results:

• Fungus mycelium found in the epidermis and superficial dermis of affected skin.
• Inflammatory infiltrates composed of T-lymphocytes, macrophages, and sensitized lymphocytes observed.
• Metabolic impairments and activated glycolysis identified in the skin.
• Subtle changes in apparently healthy skin indicate systemic involvement.

Conclusions:

• Intertrichinous mycoses involve systemic skin changes, not just localized infections.
• Treatment should include antifungal agents, angioprotectors, proteolysis inhibitors, and immunostimulants.
• Understanding metabolic alterations is crucial for managing prolonged mycotic processes.