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Scanning electron microscopy of experimental Trichophyton mentagrophytes infections in guinea pig skin
Abstract:
Trichophyton mentagrophytes invasion of guinea pig skin was examined by scanning electron microscopy. Biopsies were obtained daily for 12 days from experimental infection sites. Dermatophyte invasion, examined in detail by scanning electron microscopy of cross-sectioned, prefixed skin was evidenced by: the appearance of hyphae within the stratum corneum; follicular invasion by hyphae, which remained initially within the follicle wall; emergence of the hyphae from the wall into the follicular canal; proliferation of the fungus down the follicle, with furrowing of the follicle wall and hair shaft cuticle; penetration of hyphae into the hair shaft by subcuticular and transcuticular routes; and massive peripilar hyphal proliferation with arthrosporogenesis. A three-dimensional perception of the invasion sequence of a dermatophyte in guinea pig skin was obtained by scanning electron microscopy.
Insights
Scanning electron microscopy revealed how Trichophyton mentagrophytes invades guinea pig skin. The study details the fungal hyphae
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Dermatology
- Microscopy
Background:
- Dermatophyte infections affect the skin's outer layers.
- Understanding fungal invasion mechanisms is crucial for treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To visualize and describe the sequential invasion of guinea pig skin by Trichophyton mentagrophytes.
- To utilize scanning electron microscopy for a detailed, three-dimensional view of fungal penetration.
Main Methods:
- Experimental infection of guinea pig skin with Trichophyton mentagrophytes.
- Daily collection of skin biopsies over 12 days.
- Detailed examination of prefixed, cross-sectioned skin using scanning electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- Hyphae were observed within the stratum corneum and invading hair follicles.
- Fungal hyphae emerged from follicle walls into the follicular canal.
- Penetration of hair shafts occurred via subcuticular and transcuticular routes.
- Massive peripilar hyphal proliferation and arthrosporogenesis were noted.
Conclusions:
- Scanning electron microscopy provides a comprehensive 3D understanding of dermatophyte skin invasion.
- The study elucidates the step-by-step process of Trichophyton mentagrophytes skin colonization.