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Cutaneous manifestations of fungal infection
1Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson 39216.
Abstract:
Fungal infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue may result from either direct contact or inoculation injury (primary infection) or from hematogenous spread from a primary focus of disease (secondary infection). The parainfectious lesions of erythema nodosum and erythema multiforme are manifestations of the host's immune response to the invading fungus, particularly Histoplasma capsulatum and Coccidiodes immitis. In some patients, skin lesions may be the only sign of a systemic fungal infection, and prompt recognition of these lesions may facilitate early diagnosis and treatment. This article first addresses the pathogenesis, host defenses, and diagnosis of fungal skin infections. The specific cutaneous manifestations of the superficial, cutaneous, subcutaneous, and systemic mycoses are then reviewed.
Insights
Fungal skin infections can arise from direct contact or spread through the body. Recognizing these cutaneous manifestations is key for early diagnosis and treatment of mycoses.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fungal skin infections present as primary (direct contact/inoculation) or secondary (hematogenous spread) infections.
- Parainfectious lesions like erythema nodosum and erythema multiforme indicate immune response to fungi (e.g., Histoplasma capsulatum, Coccidiodes immitis).
- Cutaneous lesions can be the sole indicator of systemic fungal disease, necessitating prompt recognition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathogenesis, host defenses, and diagnostic approaches for fungal skin infections.
- To detail the specific cutaneous manifestations across various types of mycoses.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on pathogenesis and host immune responses.
- Systematic review of clinical presentations and diagnostic criteria for fungal skin infections.
- Categorization of mycoses into superficial, cutaneous, subcutaneous, and systemic forms.
Main Results:
- Fungal infections manifest through direct inoculation or systemic spread, impacting skin and subcutaneous tissues.
- Immune responses to fungi can lead to characteristic skin lesions, aiding in diagnosis.
- Early identification of fungal skin lesions is crucial for timely intervention in both localized and systemic cases.
Conclusions:
- Understanding fungal pathogenesis and host defenses is vital for diagnosing mycoses.
- Cutaneous manifestations provide critical diagnostic clues for various fungal infections.
- Prompt recognition and diagnosis of fungal skin infections improve patient outcomes.