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Tinea barbae due to Trichophyton mentagrophytes related to persistent child infection
1Department of Dermatology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany.
Abstract:
The case of a 42-year-old father is presented with 6 weeks' history of a painful kerion-like sycosis barbae. His two children had suffered from tinea manus 3 months previously, also caused by the zoophilic fungus Trichophyton mentagrophytes probably acquired from guinea-pigs. Seemingly ignoring the pathogenetic link, oral antibacterial treatment had been the first therapeutic attempt initiated by the family physician. Finally, successful treatment was performed by means of oral application of fluconazole 50 mg daily for a period of 6 weeks.
Insights
A painful fungal infection of the beard (sycosis barbae) in a father was successfully treated with oral fluconazole. This case highlights the importance of identifying fungal infections, even after prior antibacterial treatment attempts.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Sycosis barbae is a fungal infection of the beard area, often caused by zoophilic dermatophytes.
- Previous exposure to dermatophyte infections, such as tinea manus in family members, can be a risk factor.
- Misdiagnosis and inappropriate initial treatment, like oral antibiotics, can delay effective management.
Observation:
- A 42-year-old male presented with a 6-week history of painful kerion-like sycosis barbae.
- The patient's children had a history of tinea manus caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes, likely acquired from guinea pigs.
- Initial treatment with oral antibiotics by a family physician was unsuccessful.
Findings:
- The causative agent was presumed to be Trichophyton mentagrophytes, a zoophilic fungus.
- Successful treatment was achieved with oral fluconazole 50 mg daily for 6 weeks.
- This indicates the efficacy of systemic antifungal therapy for severe sycosis barbae.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis in fungal infections of the skin and hair follicles.
- Emphasizes considering fungal etiology in beard infections, especially with a history of zoonotic fungal exposure.
- Demonstrates fluconazole as an effective treatment option for kerion-like sycosis barbae.