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[White piedra. Report of a case]
1Instituto de Microbiología Clínica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.
Revista Medica De Chile
|May 1, 1996
Summary
White piedra, a superficial fungal infection, commonly presents as white-yellowish nodules on hair shafts. This case highlights Trichosporon beigelii as the causative agent in an adolescent male with scalp lesions.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Superficial mycoses represent a significant group of fungal infections affecting the skin, hair, and nails.
- White piedra is a common superficial mycosis characterized by the formation of soft, white or yellowish nodules on hair shafts.
- Trichosporon beigelii is a yeast-like fungus frequently implicated as the causative agent of white piedra.
Observation:
- A case study involving an 18-year-old male presenting with distinct clinical manifestations on the scalp.
- The patient exhibited white-yellowish nodules, approximately 1 mm in diameter, attached to several hairs.
- These nodules were observed to be agglutinated, forming chains, and in some instances, thread-like structures with a greasy appearance.
Findings:
- Microscopic examination and subsequent fungal cultures confirmed the presence of Trichosporon beigelii.
- The identification of Trichosporon beigelii in culture is crucial for diagnosing white piedra.
- The clinical presentation of nodules on scalp hairs was consistent with white piedra.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of accurate mycological diagnosis in superficial fungal infections.
- Timely and appropriate antifungal treatment is essential for managing white piedra.
- Patient follow-up is critical to ensure treatment efficacy and prevent recurrence of fungal infections.