Skin

 

DERMATOPHYTOSIS (TINEA) infections are fungal infections caused by dermatophytes - a group of fungi that invade and grow in dead keratin. Several species commonly invade human keratin and these belong to the Epidermophyton, Microsporum and Trichophyton genera. They tend to grow outwards on skin producing a ring-like pattern - hence the term 'ringworm'. They are very common and affect different parts of the body. They can usually be successfully treated but success depends on the site of infection and on compliance with treatment.

Clinical classification is according to site:

• Scalp - tinea capitis.
• Feet - tinea pedis.
• Hands - tinea manuum.
• Nail - tinea unguium (or onycomyosis).
• Beard area -tinea barbae.
• Groin - tinea cruris.

Body including trunk and arms -tinea corporis.