Causes and risk factors
Dermatophytosis is caused by a group of fungi called as dermatophytes like trichophyton, microsporum and epidermophyton. The fungus is found in moist soil or warm areas like locker rooms or tanning beds or public showers. Infection can be spread by coming in contact with the infected soil or by sharing personal items like clothing, hairbrush, towels, and sports goods. Certain predisposing factors like diabetes and obesity.
Clinical presentation
According to the site of affection it is classified as tinea capitis(scalp), crucis(groin), ungium(finger and toe nails), barbae(facial hair) pedis(skin of the feet), manum(skin of hands and palms), corporis(skin of arms,legs and trunks) and tinea faciei(face).The patient complaints of reddish eruptions on the body in patches is seen. Itching in these patches occurs. Eruptions with foul smelling discharges occurs. The nails becomes thick, lose their luster and they break off easily.
Investigations
Diagnosis is confirmed on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and on examining the lesion. The affected area is seen under black light, glowing of the affected area in black light is diagnostic. Routine blood test and tissue cultures can also be advised.
Treatment
Administration of antifungal medications is the only line of treatment. Along with this maintaining proper personal hygiene, avoiding sharing of personal items and use of foot wares near the swimming pool areas and locker room should also be implemented.
Other modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
