Trichophyton erinacei: an emergent pathogen of pediatric dermatophytosis

Dermatophytoses in children are common pathologies worldwide caused mainly by Trichophyton rubrum. However, due to the globalization and the atypical pets that people nowadays own, some zoonotic species are also involved in these lesions.

We present two cases of tinea faciei caused by the zoonotic mould Trichophyton erinacei in two children that owned a guinea pig and a hedgehog, respectively. Mycological diagnosis was performed inoculating skin scales on Sabouraud-glucose agar plates supplemented with chloramphenicol, with and without gentamicin, and on Sabouraud-glucose agar tubes, with and without cycloheximide. Microscopical examination in both cases and ITS region sequencing to confirm the identification (performed in one of them) were compatible with T. erinacei. Multiple treatments like corticosteroids and antibiotics were prescribed prior to the accurate diagnosis. Finally, both patients received topical and oral terbinafine, respectively, the lesions being resolved entirely.

Zoonotic fungi must be considered in the diagnosis of skin lesions. An accurate medical record, with a guided anamnesis about possible risk factors and an ongoing and open dialogue between health professionals, are essential to improve both the management of these exotic and zoophilic dermatophytoses.