Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 4, 2025

Deep Dermal Injection As a Model of Candida albicans Skin Infection for Histological Analyses
Published on: June 13, 2018
[Genetic predisposition to mucocutaneous fungal infections]
B Baghad1, A A Bousfiha2, S Chiheb3
1Service de dermatologie vénéréologie, CHU de Casablanca, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Maroc; Laboratoire d'immunologie clinique, inflammation et allergie, Faculté de médecine et de pharmacie de Casablanca, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Maroc.
Abstract:
Mucocutaneous fungal infections are common and usually occur in the presence of certain risk factors. However, these infections can occur in patients with no known risk factors. This indicates the presence of an underlying genetic susceptibility to fungi reflecting an innate or adaptive immune deficiency. In this review, we highlight genetic factors that predispose to mucocutaneous fungal infections specially candidiasis and dermatophytosis.
Insights
Genetic factors can cause fungal infections like candidiasis even without typical risk factors. This review explores genetic susceptibilities linked to mucocutaneous fungal diseases.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Medical Mycology
- Human Genetics
Background:
- Mucocutaneous fungal infections, including candidiasis and dermatophytosis, are prevalent clinical conditions.
- While often associated with identifiable risk factors, these infections can manifest in individuals lacking such predispositions.
- This suggests an underlying genetic component influencing susceptibility, potentially involving innate or adaptive immune system deficiencies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and elucidate the genetic factors contributing to mucocutaneous fungal infections.
- To specifically highlight genetic predispositions in cases of candidiasis and dermatophytosis.
- To underscore the role of genetic susceptibility in unexplained fungal infections.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of genetic studies and clinical case reports.
- Analysis of genetic variations associated with immune deficiencies.
- Synthesis of evidence linking specific genes to fungal infection susceptibility.
Main Results:
- Identification of several genetic factors associated with increased risk of fungal infections.
- Correlation between specific immune deficiencies and susceptibility to candidiasis and dermatophytosis.
- Demonstration of genetic predisposition in patients without conventional risk factors.
Conclusions:
- Genetic susceptibility plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of mucocutaneous fungal infections.
- Understanding these genetic factors is crucial for diagnosing and managing unexplained fungal diseases.
- Further research into the genetic basis of fungal immunity can inform novel therapeutic strategies.
Related Concept Videos
Skin Diseases and Disorders
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...
Fungal Phylum Microsporidia
Mismatch Repair
The Mutator Protein Family Plays a Key Role in DNA Mismatch Repair
The human genome has more than 3 billion base pairs of DNA per cell. Prior to cell division, that vast amount of genetic...
Mismatch Repair
Fungal Group Zygomycota

