Fungal Skin Infection - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Tinea" refers to a skin infection with a dermatophyte (ringworm) fungus. It is also known in wrestlers and widespread among wrestling teams worldwide. It is a common problem with no serious or permanent ill-effects. Tinea infections are named for the part of the body they infect. Tinea Versicolor is a fungus which mainly affects adolescent or teenager's skin. This occurs due to heavy growth of the yeast on the skin surface. When such kind of a growth occurs it causes uneven skin color, scaling which can be itchy. An oily skin type makes things easier for this kind of a condition. The area affected is the neck, upper chest and back. Tinea corporis is a fungal infection of the skin on the body. Also called “ringworm”, this infection is typified by small, red spots that grow into large rings almost anywhere on the arms, legs or chest with healthy looking skin in the middle. Ringworm gets its name from the characteristic ring that can appear, but it has nothing to do with a worm under the skin. Although unsightly, ringworm usually isn't serious, except potentially for people with weak immune systems. Tinea pedis is also called "athlete's foot." It is the most common and most stubborn cause of tinea pedis and only affects humans. The moist skin between the toes is a perfect place for a fungus to grow.

Athlete's foot sometimes affects the foot, ankle or lower leg. The skin may become itchy and red, with a white, wet surface. The condition is contagious and easily contracted in public showers, locker rooms and fitness centers. The infection can also involve palms and fingers. Tinea pedis affects all ages but is more common in adults than in children. The fungal spores can persist for months or years in bathrooms, changing rooms and swimming pools. Walking bare foot on a communal floor or sharing a towel can result in infection. Tinea cruris is commonly called “Jock Itch.” Tinea cruris is the name used for infection of the groin with a dermatophyte fungus. It is most often seen in adult men.The appearance is similar to ringworm ( tinea corporis ). The rash has a scaly raised red border that spreads down the inner thighs from the groin or scrotum. Tinea cruris may form ring-like patterns on the buttocks. It is generally less severe than other tinea  infections, but may be persistent, lasting for weeks or months without treatment. Jock  itch is characterized by a red, itchy, often ring- shaped rash. Symptoms include chafing or burning in the groin, with peeling, flaking or cracking skin.

Causes of Fungal Skin Infection

Common Causes and Risk factors of Fungal Skin Infection

• Fungi.
• Dermatophytes.
• Trichophyton.
• Microsporum.
• Epidermophyton.
• Diabetes.
• Immune system weakened by cancer or HIV infection

Sign and Symptoms of Fungal Skin Infection

Common Sign and Symptoms of Fungal Skin Infection

• Rash red, scaly and itchy.
• Dry skin.
• Hair loss.
• Pruritis (itching)
• Painful erythma (redness)
• Scaling (flaking)
• "Satellite" papules and pustules

Treatment for Fungal Skin Infection

Common Treatment for Fungal Skin Infection

• There are a variety of treatments available in the form of creams, lotions and medicated powders.
• Some treatments are available over the counter from a pharmacist. Include clotrimazole (eg Canesten), miconazole (eg Daktarin) and terbinafine (eg Lamisil). Pharmacy own-brands are also available for some of these products.
• Carefully clean the shower or bath using bleach.
• Regularly wash floors where you walk bare foot.
• Avoid walking bare foot where others may tread - wear jandals, sandals or aquasocks at the public pools and sports changing rooms.
• Avoid long periods wearing the same clothing, or wearing occlusive clothing such as wet weather gear and nylon pantyhose.
• Wear open-toed sandals when possible. Avoid long periods in occlusive footwear such as gum boots or tramping boots.
• Use antifungal foot powder e.g. ciclopirox (Batrafen ), econazole (Pevaryl ), miconazole (Daktarin , Fungo ), tolciclate (Tolmicen ), tolnaftate (Tinaderm ), undecylenic acid.
• Keep the affected skin clean and dry. Wash daily. Take care to dry between the toes and in the skin folds; use a hair dryer if necessary. Use your own towel.

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