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Trichophyton mentagrophytes cause underestimated contagious zoophilic fungal infection

Viktor Alexander Czaika1, Phi-Anh Lam

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany. Viktor.Czaika@charite.de

Mycoses
|April 12, 2013
PubMed

Insights

This study details a contagious Trichophyton mentagrophytes infection in a family. Effective treatment involves identifying the fungus, source, and carriers, using both systemic and topical medications.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Trichophytia, or tinea, is a fungal infection primarily affecting children but also seen in infants and adults.
  • It is commonly known as "cuddly toy mycosis" due to potential transmission from contaminated objects.

Observation:

  • A case study involving four family members infected with Trichophyton mentagrophytes is presented.
  • This highlights the high contagiousness of the infection within a household setting.

Findings:

  • Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective Trichophytia treatment, requiring identification of the specific dermatophyte.
  • Locating the infection source and treating all carriers are essential to prevent recurrence and transmission.

Implications:

  • Tinea infections necessitate both systemic and topical treatments due to their infectivity and potential for spread.
  • Recommended treatments include systemic terbinafine or fluconazole, combined with topical isoconazole nitrate/diflucortolone valerate.

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