An analysis of infiltrating cells in human ringworm

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Immunology
• Pathology

Background:

• Ringworm (tinea corporis) is a superficial fungal infection of the skin.
• Understanding the immunopathology of skin lesions is crucial for effective treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the immunopathological features of ringworm lesions at different stages.
• To analyze the distribution and types of immune cells within active and resolving lesions.

Main Methods:

• Radial slice biopsies were taken from six patients with ringworm, spanning from normal skin to the central resolving area.
• Immunohistochemical staining was used to identify and quantify immune cells, including T cells and Langerhans cells (OKT6 positive).

Main Results:

• The active edge of the lesion showed a moderate dermal infiltrate of mononuclear cells, predominantly T cells, with a helper T cell to suppressor T cell ratio of 3.4.
• The central resolving area had a milder infiltrate, with a helper T cell to suppressor T cell ratio of 3.0.
• Langerhans cells (OKT6 positive) were decreased in the epidermis at the active edge but increased in the central resolving epidermis, with accumulation in the upper dermis at the edge.

Conclusions:

• The immune response in ringworm involves significant T cell infiltration and dynamic changes in Langerhans cell populations.
• These findings highlight the evolving immunopathological landscape of ringworm lesions, correlating with clinical resolution.