Tinea versicolor: a scanning electron microscopic view

Tinea versicolor (TV) infections were studied in the scanning electron microscope utilizing several different sampling and preparatory techniques. Scalpel scrapings provided information only on the morphology of individual spores and hyphae, while biopsies and cyanoacrylate adhesive slides demonstrated the topography of the disease as well as providing information on how the infection spreads and recurs. Critical point drying was necessart to maintain the fine ultrastructure previously described. The deep follicular location of the spores seen in this study probably explains the tendency for TV to recur. The follicular packing was specific, since the eccrine pores seem to be exempt from the infection.