Tinea Corporis, Tinea Cruris,... Health Article

Tinea infections are among the most common dermatologic conditions throughout the world. Skin ringworm infections, such as tinea corporis and tinea cruris, are primarily caused by the dermatophytes Trichophyton rubrum , Trichophyton mentagrophytes, and Microsporum canis. Tinea nigra is an infection of the palms or soles, which may be associated with travel to endemic regions (eg, Southeast United States and Central America). Black or white nodules found along the shaft of the hair may be infections with Piedraia hortae , or Trichosporon species, better known as "black piedra" or "white piedra." To avoid a misdiagnosis, identification of dermatophyte infections requires both a fungal culture on Sabouraud's agar media, and a mycologic examination, consisting of a 10% to 15% KOH preparation, from skin scrapings. Topical antifungals may be sufficient for treatment of tinea corporis and cruris and tinea nigra, and the shaving of hair infected by piedra may also be beneficial. Systemic therapy, however, may be required when the infected areas are large, macerated with a secondary infection, or in immunocompromised individuals. Preventative measures of tinea infections include practicing good personal hygiene; keeping the skin dry and cool at all times; and avoiding sharing towels, clothing, or hair accessories with infected individuals.