Causes and risk factors
Dermatophytosis is caused by a group of fungi called as dermatophytes like trichophyton, microsporum and epidermophyton. Tinea corporis is caused by different types namely Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Trichophyton verrucosum, Trichophyton rubrum or Trichophyton interdigitale. 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. Dogs and cats can also suffer from tinea infection and are potential source for spreading of infection. Touching or scratching or rubbing the skin with infected hands help in spread of infection to the area. Warm and moist climate, wearing tight clothes and excessive sweating also aids in harboring the infection. Certain predisposing factors like diabetes, obesity and weak immune system contribute to the causation.
Clinical presentation
The complaints occur 7-10 days after the contact with the fungi. The patient complaints of reddish eruptions on the body in patches. The lesion is typically red and round like a ring. It has got sharp and raised edges. Bald patches with eruptions or rash going outwards in concentric planes are seen. Itching in these patches occurs. Itching aggravates the pain, typically burning sensation is seen. In cases with extreme itch slight oozing of blood is seen. It can spread the infection to other parts of the body. Eruptions which are filled with fluid can also be seen.
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. Either oral medications or antifungal ointments are prescribed. 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.
