[Persistent dermatomycosis due toTrichophyton indotineae]

Jochem B Buil1,2, Eelco F J Meijer3, Martijn den Reijer4

  • 1Radboudumc, afd. Medische Microbiologie, Nijmegen.

Insights

Trichophyton indotineae causes persistent fungal skin infections, often resistant to standard treatments like terbinafine. Aggressive combination therapy and susceptibility testing are recommended for effective management.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Dermatology
  • Infectious Diseases

Context:

  • Trichophyton indotineae is an emerging dermatophyte causing widespread and persistent dermatomycosis.
  • Commonly observed in the Indian subcontinent, it is increasingly detected in Europe, often linked to travel history.
  • Infections present as tinea corporis, tinea cruris, and tinea faciei.

Purpose:

  • To highlight the clinical characteristics and treatment challenges associated with Trichophyton indotineae.
  • To inform healthcare professionals about the reduced susceptibility of this pathogen to common antifungal agents.
  • To emphasize the need for early recognition and aggressive treatment strategies.

Summary:

  • Trichophyton indotineae infections are characterized by extensive and persistent skin lesions.
  • Treatment failures are common due to reduced susceptibility to terbinafine and itraconazole.
  • Aggressive combination therapy (oral and topical antifungals) and susceptibility testing are advised.

Impact:

  • Facilitates earlier and more accurate diagnosis of recalcitrant dermatomycoses.
  • Guides clinicians in selecting appropriate and effective antifungal treatments.
  • Aims to reduce treatment failures, recurrences, and the overall burden of these infections.