[Rubrophytosis of the face]

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases

Context:

• Trichophytosis, a fungal infection, can manifest on the face.
• Trichophyton rubrum (T. rubrum) is a common cause of superficial fungal infections.
• Facial fungal infections present diagnostic challenges due to diverse clinical appearances.

Purpose:

• To review the incidence and types of facial fungal involvement in T. rubrum-induced trichophytosis globally.
• To describe unusual clinical variants and specific facial localizations of T. rubrum infections.
• To emphasize the importance of considering fungal etiology in atypical dermatoses.

Summary:

• The review analyzes data on T. rubrum facial trichophytosis, noting specific sites like the lacrimal-nasal channel and external acoustic meatus.
• Extraordinary variants include tumor-like, wart-like, infiltrative suppurative, and seborrheic forms, alongside presentations mimicking photodermatoses and perioral dermatitis.
• The study includes 35 case histories and photographs of 8 patients, illustrating common and atypical presentations.

Impact:

• Highlights the broad spectrum of T. rubrum facial infections, aiding in diagnosis.
• Underscores the need for dermatologists to consider fungal infections in complex facial dermatological cases.
• Provides valuable data for clinicians managing T. rubrum infections and rare dermatological conditions.