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Published on: November 6, 2019
Dermatophyte infection: from fungal pathogenicity to host immune responses
Ruixin Deng1,2,3,4, Xiaowen Wang1,2,3,4, Ruoyu Li1,2,3,4
1Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.
Abstract:
Dermatophytosis is a common superficial infection caused by dermatophytes, a group of pathogenic keratinophilic fungi. Apart from invasion against skin barrier, host immune responses to dermatophytes could also lead to pathologic inflammation and tissue damage to some extent. Therefore, it is of great help to understand the pathogenesis of dermatophytes, including fungal virulence factors and anti-pathogen immune responses. This review aims to summarize the recent advances in host-fungal interactions, focusing on the mechanisms of anti-fungal immunity and the relationship between immune deficiency and chronic dermatophytosis, in order to facilitate novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to improve the outcomes of these patients.
Insights
Dermatophytosis, a fungal skin infection, involves fungal factors and host immunity. Understanding these interactions aids in developing new diagnostics and treatments for chronic cases.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Immunology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Dermatophytosis is a common superficial fungal infection caused by pathogenic keratinophilic fungi known as dermatophytes.
- Host immune responses to dermatophytes can contribute to inflammation and tissue damage, complicating the infection.
- Understanding fungal virulence and host immunity is crucial for managing dermatophytosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in host-fungal interactions in dermatophytosis.
- To focus on mechanisms of anti-fungal immunity and the role of immune deficiency in chronic infections.
- To guide the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article, synthesizing existing research.
- Focuses on summarizing current knowledge on host-pathogen interactions.
- Literature search and analysis of studies on dermatophyte infections and immunity.
Main Results:
- Host immune responses play a dual role, combating infection while potentially causing damage.
- Immune deficiency is linked to the development and persistence of chronic dermatophytosis.
- Key fungal virulence factors and specific anti-fungal immune mechanisms are highlighted.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive understanding of host-fungal interactions is essential for treating dermatophytosis.
- Targeting immune responses and virulence factors may offer new therapeutic avenues.
- Further research into immune deficiency-related chronic cases is warranted.
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