[The present state of Trichophyton tonsurans infection in Japan and measures to combat it]

More than 10 years have passed since Trichophyton tonsurans infection first began to increase in Japan. Initially the infection was confined to high school and university students participating in combat sports clubs, but it has now spread among the athletes' family members and friends. In a recent survey, 10% of Judo athletes tested positive for Trichophyton tonsurans; most were asymptomatic carriers. T.tonsurans infection usually causes tinea corporis or tinea capitis, but lesions can occur on other sites, causing tinea unguim, tinea manus, etc . The course of infection is usually only mildly symptomatic, and individuals with long-term infection can become asymptomatic carriers. It is likely that many individuals are unaware that they have Trichophyton tonsurans infection. The number of individuals infected with clear without repeating is difficult to assess due to the complexity of the fungal culture process. Diagnosis is made by direct examination in KOH and culture, and treatment consists of topical and / or oral antifungals. Prevention of Trichophyton tonsurans infection through increased awareness of the disease and careful hygiene is important.