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Updated: Mar 11, 2026
Broth Microdilution In Vitro Screening: An Easy and Fast Method to Detect New Antifungal Compounds
Published on: February 14, 2018
Topical and systemic antifungals in dermatology practice
Murat Durdu1, Macit Ilkit2, Yalda Tamadon3
1a Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine , Başkent University Adana Hospital , Adana , Turkey.
Introduction:
Dermatophytosis is generally defined as an infection of the hair, nails, or glabrous skin. These infections are caused by the keratinophilic fungi Trichophyton spp., Microsporum spp., and Epidermophyton, which have been recovered from both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. Although dermatophytosis is generally not a life-threatening condition, these types of infections are among the most common infections worldwide, and their incidence has continued to increase consistently in recent years. Area covered: This article provides an overview of the general characteristics of dermatophytes, including their taxonomy and epidemiology, as well as the different clinical forms and laboratory diagnostics of dermatophytosis. We further classify the topical and systemic antifungal compounds currently used to treat dermatophyte infections. Expert commentary: Antifungal therapy is a central component of patient management for dermatophytosis, and depending on the strategy chosen, topical and/or systemic drugs can be used. However, for effective treatment, it is important to correctly determine the causal agents at the species level, which will enable administration of suitable therapeutics and initiation of appropriate management strategies.
Insights
Dermatophytosis, a common fungal infection affecting skin, hair, and nails, is increasingly prevalent worldwide. Accurate species identification is crucial for effective topical and systemic antifungal treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Dermatophytosis encompasses fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails caused by keratinophilic fungi like Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton.
- These infections are globally prevalent, posing a significant public health concern due to their increasing incidence.
- While generally not life-threatening, dermatophytosis requires effective management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of dermatophyte characteristics, including taxonomy and epidemiology.
- To detail the clinical presentations and laboratory diagnostic methods for dermatophytosis.
- To classify current topical and systemic antifungal therapies for dermatophyte infections.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing data on dermatophytes and dermatophytosis.
- Classification of dermatophyte species based on taxonomic and epidemiological data.
- Categorization of antifungal agents based on their application (topical/systemic) and efficacy.
Main Results:
- Dermatophytes are classified, and their epidemiological patterns are discussed.
- Various clinical forms of dermatophytosis and their laboratory diagnoses are presented.
- A classification of existing topical and systemic antifungal compounds is provided.
Conclusions:
- Accurate identification of causative fungal species is paramount for successful dermatophytosis treatment.
- Antifungal therapy, utilizing topical and/or systemic agents, is central to patient management.
- Tailored therapeutic strategies based on species-level diagnosis ensure optimal patient outcomes.
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