What is nystatin cream used for. How does nystatin cream work against fungal infections. Who is at risk for fungal infections. What are the symptoms of yeast infections on the skin. How much does nystatin cream cost. What are the benefits and risks of using nystatin cream.

Understanding Nystatin Cream: A Powerful Antifungal Medication

Nystatin cream is a topical antifungal medication used to treat various fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida (yeast). This versatile treatment is effective against cutaneous candidiasis and can even be used to address diaper rash in infants. Available under several brand names, including Mycostatin, Nystex, and Pediaderm AF, nystatin cream is sometimes combined with corticosteroids to provide additional anti-inflammatory benefits.

What Makes Nystatin Cream Unique?

Nystatin cream stands out among antifungal treatments due to its specific action against yeast infections. Unlike some broader-spectrum antifungals, nystatin targets Candida species effectively, making it a go-to choice for healthcare providers when treating yeast-related skin issues.

The Science Behind Nystatin: How It Combats Fungal Infections

Nystatin cream works by directly attacking fungal cells and preventing their growth. This two-pronged approach makes it highly effective in treating existing infections and preventing their spread. The medication interferes with the fungal cell membrane, causing it to become porous and ultimately leading to cell death.

Mechanism of Action

• Binds to ergosterol in fungal cell membranes
• Creates pores in the membrane, disrupting cellular functions
• Causes leakage of cellular contents, leading to fungal cell death
• Prevents further growth and reproduction of fungal cells

Identifying Yeast Infections: Signs and Symptoms on the Skin

Recognizing the signs of a yeast infection on the skin is crucial for timely treatment. Common symptoms include:

• Rash
• Pimple-like bumps
• Oozing patches
• Itching
• Burning sensation

These symptoms typically appear in warm, moist areas of the body, such as the armpits, groin, or skin folds. People with obesity or diabetes may be more prone to developing yeast infections in areas where skin folds create a favorable environment for fungal growth.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most yeast infections are mild, some cases can become severe. Seek medical help if you experience any of the following symptoms alongside the typical signs of a yeast infection:

• Fever
• Flu-like symptoms (headache, fatigue, body aches)
• Respiratory issues (cough, shortness of breath)
• Symptoms of meningitis (severe headache, stiff neck, light sensitivity)

Who’s at Risk? Understanding Fungal Infection Vulnerability

While anyone can develop a fungal infection, certain groups are at higher risk. Understanding these risk factors can help individuals take preventive measures and seek prompt treatment when necessary.

High-Risk Groups for Fungal Infections

• Hospitalized patients
• People living with HIV or AIDS
• Transplant recipients
• Individuals on immunosuppressant medications
• Cancer patients undergoing treatment
• People with obesity
• Those with compromised immune systems

These groups may be more susceptible to fungal infections due to weakened immune responses or environmental factors that promote fungal growth.

Beyond Skin Deep: The Impact of Fungal Infections on Health

While nystatin cream primarily treats skin infections, it’s important to understand that fungi can cause a range of health issues beyond the skin. Fungal infections can affect various parts of the body, leading to conditions such as:

• Asthma or allergies
• Lung infections
• Nail bed infections
• Bloodstream infections
• Meningitis

These more severe infections underscore the importance of early detection and treatment of fungal infections, even when they appear minor.

The Cost Factor: Understanding Nystatin Cream Pricing

The cost of nystatin cream can vary depending on factors such as brand, formulation, and quantity. Generally, nystatin cream is considered an affordable antifungal treatment option.

Average Price Range

Nystatin cream typically costs between $10 and $50 for a 30-gram tube, depending on the brand and whether it’s a generic or brand-name product. Some insurance plans may cover part or all of the cost, making it even more accessible to patients.

Cost-Saving Tips

• Ask your healthcare provider about generic options
• Check with multiple pharmacies for price comparisons
• Look for manufacturer coupons or patient assistance programs
• Consider larger quantities if long-term use is expected, as this may be more cost-effective

Benefits and Risks: Weighing the Pros and Cons of Nystatin Cream

Like any medication, nystatin cream comes with both benefits and potential risks. Understanding these can help patients make informed decisions about their treatment.

Benefits of Nystatin Cream

• Effective against a wide range of yeast infections
• Generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects
• Available in various formulations (cream, ointment, powder)
• Can be used in combination with other treatments
• Suitable for use in infants (for diaper rash) and adults

Potential Risks and Side Effects

While nystatin cream is generally safe, some users may experience side effects, including:

• Skin irritation or redness at the application site
• Itching or burning sensation
• Allergic reactions (rare)

It’s important to follow the prescribed usage instructions and consult a healthcare provider if side effects persist or worsen.

Proper Application: Maximizing the Effectiveness of Nystatin Cream

To get the most benefit from nystatin cream, proper application is crucial. Follow these guidelines for optimal results:

1. Clean and dry the affected area thoroughly before application
2. Apply a thin layer of cream to the affected area and surrounding skin
3. Gently massage the cream into the skin until it’s absorbed
4. Wash your hands after application to prevent spreading the infection
5. Use the cream as directed by your healthcare provider, typically 2-4 times daily
6. Continue treatment for the full prescribed duration, even if symptoms improve

Tips for Effective Use

• Keep the affected area clean and dry between applications
• Avoid tight-fitting clothing that may trap moisture
• Change out of damp or sweaty clothes promptly
• Use breathable fabrics to promote air circulation

Complementary Treatments: Enhancing the Efficacy of Nystatin Cream

While nystatin cream is effective on its own, combining it with other treatments and lifestyle changes can enhance its efficacy and prevent recurrence of fungal infections.

Dietary Considerations

Some dietary changes may help support the body’s natural defenses against fungal overgrowth:

• Reduce sugar and refined carbohydrate intake
• Incorporate probiotic-rich foods or supplements
• Increase consumption of antifungal foods (e.g., garlic, coconut oil)
• Stay hydrated to support overall skin health

Hygiene and Lifestyle Practices

Adopting certain habits can help prevent fungal infections and support treatment:

• Practice good hand hygiene
• Keep skin clean and dry, especially in prone areas
• Wear breathable, moisture-wicking clothing
• Change out of wet or sweaty clothes promptly
• Avoid sharing personal items like towels or clothing

The Importance of Completing Treatment: Preventing Antifungal Resistance

One of the critical aspects of using nystatin cream effectively is completing the full course of treatment as prescribed. Failure to do so can lead to antifungal resistance, a growing concern in the medical community.

Understanding Antifungal Resistance

Antifungal resistance occurs when fungi adapt to survive exposure to antifungal medications. This can happen when treatments are not completed as directed, allowing surviving fungi to multiply and pass on their resistant traits.

Consequences of Incomplete Treatment

• Recurrence of infection
• More difficult-to-treat infections in the future
• Spread of resistant fungal strains
• Increased healthcare costs

To prevent these issues, always complete the full course of nystatin cream treatment, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.

When Nystatin Isn’t Enough: Alternative Antifungal Treatments

While nystatin cream is effective for many fungal infections, some cases may require alternative or additional treatments. Understanding these options can be helpful if nystatin cream doesn’t provide sufficient relief.

Other Topical Antifungals

• Clotrimazole
• Miconazole
• Ketoconazole
• Terbinafine

Oral Antifungal Medications

For more severe or persistent infections, oral antifungals may be prescribed, such as:

• Fluconazole
• Itraconazole
• Terbinafine (oral form)

Always consult with a healthcare provider before switching or combining antifungal treatments to ensure safety and efficacy.

Preventing Recurrence: Long-Term Strategies for Fungal Control

After successfully treating a fungal infection with nystatin cream, taking steps to prevent recurrence is crucial. Implementing long-term strategies can help maintain skin health and reduce the risk of future infections.

Ongoing Preventive Measures

• Maintain good personal hygiene
• Use antifungal powders in prone areas (e.g., feet, groin)
• Regularly inspect skin for early signs of infection
• Manage underlying conditions like diabetes effectively
• Consider periodic use of antifungal products in high-risk individuals

Environmental Control

Managing your environment can also play a role in preventing fungal infections:

• Keep living spaces clean and dry
• Use dehumidifiers in damp areas
• Regularly clean and disinfect high-risk areas (e.g., showers, gym equipment)
• Avoid walking barefoot in public areas like locker rooms or pools

By combining effective treatment with nystatin cream and implementing these preventive strategies, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of recurring fungal infections and maintain healthier skin.

What Is Nystatin Cream Used For?

What is Nystatin Cream | What is it Used For | Risk of Infection | How does it work | Cost | Benefits | Risks | Side Effects

None of us like to think about it, but fungus is everywhere, and the potential for fungal infections is lurking around us constantly. When you think of fungal infections, you probably think of things like athlete’s foot or jock itch, both of which are common fungal infections that are uncomfortable and inconvenient. Fungal infections can be more than uncomfortable, however – they can be deadly. What may start as a simple yeast infection of the skin, known as candidiasis, can become a severe invasive infection within the bloodstream. Yeast infections are the cause of more than 3.6 million U.S. healthcare visits each year, resulting in an estimated 3 billion dollars in direct medical costs, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Some species of fungus are becoming increasingly resistant to antifungal treatment because patients do not complete their recommended course of treatment, allowing the fungus to adapt and change to improve its immunity to the medication. However, if caught early, most fungal infections of the skin can be treated with topical medications like nystatin cream and other similar drugs. If you find yourself wondering what is nystatin cream used for, you may be surprised by the applications it has to a very common problem affecting infants and adults alike.

What Is Nystatin Cream?

Nystatin cream is a topical medication that belongs to a class of drugs called antifungals. Antifungal medications are used to kill a fungus that may be infecting the skin and to prevent the growth of the fungus. Nystatin is sold under several brand names, including Mycostatin, Nystex, and Pediaderm AF. It can be used on its own, but it is often combined with corticosteroid creams that are used to treat inflammation. When sold as nystatin topical cream, it is for use as an antifungal medication only. Combination medications, such as nystatin and triamcinolone, are sold under brand names like Mycolog-II, Mytrex, and Quenalog. 

What Is Nystatin Cream Used For?

Nystatin cream is an antifungal medication that is used to treat certain fungal infections, including Candida (Monilia), or yeast infections. It can also be used to treat diaper rash in infants. Fungal infections, called mycosis, are caused by an infestation of fungus on the skin. Fungi can be found everywhere in our environment, including on household surfaces, in dirt, on plants, and on the skin. Nystatin cream treats a type of fungal infection called cutaneous candidiasis, which is caused by yeast. Yeast infections aren’t contagious, but they can be uncomfortable. They are most commonly found in warm areas of the body that are creased and are regularly moist, such as the armpits or groin. People who are obese and have folds of skin that are difficult to clean may experience yeast infections within the folds. People with diabetes and those taking antibiotics are also considered to be at a higher risk of yeast infection. Signs of a yeast infection on the skin include:

• Rash
• Pimple-like bumps
• Oozing patches
• Itching
• Burning

Yeast infections can also occur in the nail beds, in the mouth (called thrush), or in the vagina. However, nystatin cream is only used for the treatment of yeast infections on the skin. In some cases, fungal infections can become severe and become more serious. You should seek medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms in addition to those listed above:

• Fever
• Flu-like symptoms
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Body aches and pains
• Night sweats
• Respiratory issues 
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath
• Symptoms of meningitis
  • Severe headache
  • Stiff neck
  • Light sensitivity 

Who Is Considered at Risk for a Fungal Infection?

Because we are always surrounded by fungus, anyone can get a fungal infection at any time. However, fungal infections are most common in people with weakened immune systems or certain other characteristics. People considered at increased risk of a fungal infection include:

• People who are currently hospitalized
• Patients living with HIV or AIDS
• Transplant recipients
• People taking immunosuppressant medications
• People with compromised immune systems
• Patients undergoing treatment for cancer
• People suffering from obesity

In addition to skin infections, fungi can also cause other types of illnesses, including asthma or allergies, lung infections, infections of the nail bed, bloodstream infections, meningitis, and more. However, most fungal infections are minor in their early stages and can be treated effectively if caught early.

How Does Nystatin Cream Work?

Antifungal medications like nystatin cream work by directly attacking and killing fungal cells and by preventing fungal cells from growing. In order to kill the fungal cells and stop the growth of new cells, medications like nystatin cream specifically attempt to destroy cellular structures and functions that are critical to fungal cells but not to human cells. This way, fungal medications do not cause additional damage to your skin or other parts of the body. Fungal medications commonly target the cell membrane and cell wall of the fungus, both of which are responsible for the protection of the cell. The cell membrane and cell wall hold the fungal cell together, so when one or both is destroyed, the fungal cell dies and cannot reproduce. Nystatin cream belongs to a specific subclass of antifungal medications called polyenes, which work by attacking the cell wall of the fungus to make it more porous. Over time, the cells of the fungus burst and die.

How Much Does Nystatin Cream Cost?

Because nystatin cream is produced by a variety of manufacturers in both brand-name and generic forms and in a variety of strengths, it is relatively inexpensive. A 15-gram tube of nystatin cream costs anywhere from 7 to 8 dollars, while a 30-gram tube would cost approximately 13 dollars. Extremely large quantities of the medication at a very high strength can be expensive, but the medication is generally considered highly affordable. It is covered by many insurance plans. Patients who have difficulty affording their prescriptions of nystatin cream may receive additional savings by using a pharmacy discount card like USA Rx, which offers savings on all brand name and generic FDA-approved medications at more than 60,000 participating pharmacies. USA Rx is not insurance, and no personal information or medical history is needed besides your name and contact information. Participants in the USA Rx pharmacy discount program pay a negotiated rate that USA Rx arranges which each drug manufacturer in order to offer the maximum possible discount without complicated paperwork, copays, or coverage limits.  

What Are the Benefits of Nystatin Cream?

Nystatin cream is generally well tolerated by most patients, so there are many benefits associated with its use:

• Effective at treating skin yeast infections 
• Simple to apply
• Inexpensive and accessible for most patients
• Available in generic form
• Relatively few side effects
• It can be used safely on children and infants for the treatment of diaper rash.

What Risks Are Associated With Nystatin Cream Use?

Although there are many benefits associated with nystatin, as listed above, taking the medication also poses some risks. Risks associated with nystatin include:

• The medication should not be applied anywhere besides the skin. Patients should avoid getting the medication in the eyes or mouth.
• Nystatin cream can cause an allergic reaction. Patients should make their doctors aware of any known allergies.
• Patients should avoid wearing clothing that is tight, made of synthetic materials, or doesn’t allow for proper air circulation. Patients should wear loose-fitting clothing with natural fibers until the infection is healed.
• The medication should be taken for the full length of the prescription. Symptoms may improve prior to the end of the prescription, but patients should continue to use the cream as directed. Failure to do so could result in a return of the infection. 
• When used on children for diaper rash, children should not wear tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants and make sure to keep it out of the reach of children.
• If used for longer than directed, nystatin cream may begin to cause thinning of the skin and stretch marks on areas with thin skin, such as the face, armpits, and groin. Nystatin cream should be used only as directed. 

What Dose of Nystatin Cream Should I Use?

The dosage of nystatin cream recommended for use will vary depending on the patient and the severity of the infection. The amount that is prescribed to you will also vary depending on the strength of nystatin cream that is prescribed by your doctor. In general, nystatin cream should be applied in a quantity that covers the affected area two to four times per day, or as directed by your doctor. No airtight bandages should be used to cover the treated area, but a sterile gauze dressing or bandage is ok. The average length of treatment is between two to eight weeks and is determined by the severity and type of infection. It is important that patients do not skip doses of their medication and wash their hands before and after use in order to prevent further fungal spread and increased resistance of the fungus to medication. Approximately seven percent of bloodstream infections caused by yeast are resistant to antifungals, and one in four patients hospitalized with a bloodstream yeast infection dies of the infection. Therefore, it is absolutely critical that patients apply their medication as directed, do not skip any doses, and continue their treatment until directed to stop by their doctor. 

What Side Effects Are Associated With Nystatin Cream?

Very few side effects are associated with nystatin cream, and the medication is well tolerated by most people. Skin irritation is the most common possible side effect associated with nystatin cream, and it usually does not require medical attention. Patients should report adverse effects like skin irritation to their doctor or healthcare professional if it continues, gets worse, or becomes bothersome. Some people may experience mild itching. Allergic reactions to nystatin cream are also possible; signs of allergic reactions include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Patients who experience severe burning, itching, rash, pain, or other serious side effects on the application site should discontinue the use of nystatin cream immediately and contact their healthcare professional.

Can Women Who Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding Use Nystatin Cream?

Nystatin cream is currently classified by the Food and Drug Administration as a Category C medication, meaning that it is not known whether the medication will harm an unborn baby. Because the effects of nystatin cream on unborn babies are unknown, it is important that women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant speak with their doctors before applying nystatin cream. It is also unknown whether nystatin cream passes through breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. Women considering using nystatin cream should talk to their doctors before breastfeeding and using the cream. 

Do Any Other Drugs Interact With Nystatin Cream?

Nystatin cream carries a low risk of interaction with other drugs taken orally or injected. However, it is important that you give your doctor a comprehensive list of all medications that you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over the counter medications, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products. You should not start a new medication without checking with your doctor first. 

How Do I Know If Nystatin Cream Is Right for Me?

Nystatin cream is generally well-tolerated, but it is not right for everyone, including those patients who are allergic to the medication or its ingredients. Nystatin cream is capable of treating fungal skin infections caused by candida (yeast), including diaper rash. You should get medical advice from your healthcare provider about any prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, supplements, or herbs that you are taking prior to using nystatin cream. No studies have been conducted regarding the impacts of nystatin cream on pregnant or nursing mothers and their children, so patients should speak to their doctors if they are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing prior to using nystatin cream. Nystatin cream must be applied multiple times per day consistently, and patients should not skip any doses or end their treatment early. Doing so may cause the fungal infection to get worse, so patients should not use nystatin cream if they cannot commit to applying it appropriately.

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Mycostatin Cream (Nystatin)

Details

Description of Mycostatin Cream

Mycostatin Cream is a topical prescription strength cream that is used to treat fungal infections caused by the Candida species of fungi such as diaper rash or ringworm. If the native bacteria that lives on our skin naturally is decreased due to the use of antibiotics or you have a weakened immune system, Candida fungi can multiply and cause a red, scaly, itchy rash or the appearance of dry skin.

How Mycostatin Cream Deals with Fungal Infections

Mycostatin Cream works by binding to a major component of the fungal cell membrane, called ergosterol. This action causes pores to form in the membrane that lead to leakage and death of the fungus as they are no longer able to grow or multiply.

You will need a prescription from your doctor to purchase Mycostatin Cream or the generic Nystatin topical. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Conditions Treated by Mycostatin Cream

The most common fungal infections that Mycostatin Cream treats effectively are athlete’s foot, ringworm, and jock itch. If left untreated, athlete’s foot can cause itchy, flaky skin that causes white cracks to appear between your toes and side of your foot. Damp floors of gyms, saunas, and pool areas are prime spots for picking up a fungal infection while walking around in bare feet.

Ringworm often affects your arms, legs, or face and causes a red, ring-shaped rash. This type of fungal infection is highly contagious and can easily be passed on by coming in contact with an infected person or touching contaminated clothing, combs, and damp walking surfaces. Domesticated animals like sheep and cattle, and especially cats can also carry the fungus that causes ringworm. You may need to take an oral antifungal medication if you have a severe case of ringworm.

Before Mycostatin Cream is Prescribed

You should not use Mycostatin Cream to treat any skin condition that has not been checked by your doctor to confirm whether it is caused by fungus. Discuss possible risks of applying Mycostatin Cream if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or are breast feeding.

Mycostatin Cream Proper Use

It is important that Mycostatin Cream is only used as prescribed by your doctor. This product should not be used to treat a vaginal yeast infection. Keep all medicinal products out of children’s reach and never share them with anyone else. Wash your hands before and after applying Mycostatin Cream or generic Nystatin to reduce the risk of passing the infection on to others.

Possible Side Effects of Mycostatin Cream

• Rash
• Itching
• Burning sensation

You should stop using Mycostatin Cream at once and contact your doctor if you experience severe burning, itching, rash, pain, or other irritation where Mycostatin Cream is applied.

How Ringworm Is Treated

Most of the time, ringworm (tinea) can be successfully treated with an over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription cream, ointment, or other medication that’s applied directly to the rash. In some cases a systemic drug—one that is taken by mouth—is necessary. There also are natural treatments that have shown promise in curing certain types of ringworm.

The treatment used for ringworm usually depends on the part of the body that’s affected.

Ringworm that affects the feet (tinea pedis, or athlete’s foot) may need to be managed differently than ringworm that affects the scalp (tinea capitis), for example.

Home Remedies and Lifestyle

 Verywell / Maritsa Patrinos

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the only way to cure ringworm is with antifungal medication. While using such a drug, whether it’s a topical product you apply directly to skin or a pill or liquid, there are things you can do to relieve any discomfort you’re feeling until the medication takes effect.

It’s also important to do all you can to prevent the fungus from spreading to another part of your body or to another person. Some key tips for managing ringworm:

• To relieve itching, apply a cool compress to the uncomfortable area for 20 to 30 minutes at a time as needed. 
• Fungi love warmth and moisture, so keep areas affected by ringworm clean and dry. After washing, use a separate towel to dry the infected body part. 
• As much as possible, don’t wear clothing or footwear that cause you to sweat.
• Always shower after you work out to wash away perspiration. Dry off thoroughly.
• Change all of your clothes every day.
• Wash everything you wear or touch in hot water before wearing or using it again. This applies to clothing, towels, and compresses. 
• Don’t cover ringworm with a bandage or other dressing.
• Always wash your hands thoroughly after touching an area affected by ringworm. 
• Throw away any disposable items that might have been infected.
• Disinfect items you want or need to keep. For example, if you realize you were harboring a fungal foot infection while wearing expensive leather dress shoes, you can use an ultraviolet (UV) shoe sanitizer or ozone cabinet, both of which can be purchased online. 
• To prevent the spread of scalp ringworm, never wear someone else’s hat or cap. Make sure your child doesn’t share sports headgear, such as batting helmets, with teammates. 
• Shampooing with a selenium sulfide shampoo such as Selsun Blue may make ringworm of the scalp less contagious.
• If you suspect your pet has ringworm, see the vet right away. Ringworm can be passed between humans and animals. Cats are especially prone to the infection. 

Over-the-Counter Therapies

For most cases of ringworm affecting the skin, the first line of defense is a non-prescription antifungal medicine. These come as creams, ointments, powders, or sprays. You’re probably familiar with many of them: They’re readily available in drugstores, the pharmacy section of supermarkets, big-box stores, and online.

Some examples of antifungal medications for treating ringworm on the skin include: 

• Lotrimin cream, Cruex spray powder, Mycelex, Pedesil (clotrimazole)
• Desenex topical powder, Fungoid cream, Micatin cream, Lotrimin AF athlete’s foot spray or powder, Lotrimin AF Jock Itch spray powder (miconazole)
• Lamisil (terbinafine)
• Xolegel (ketoconazole)

Topical antifungal medications often work quickly.

You’ll probably notice that the scaly rash disappears before the general redness of your skin goes away, but most of the time ringworm on the skin will clear in a couple of weeks.

However, as with antibiotics, it’s important to continue to treat the area for as long as directed, even if you feel you’re totally fungus-free. This will help prevent the infection from coming back.

Ringworm on the scalp must be treated with an oral medication (as you’ll read below), but often it can help speed up healing to also use a shampoo that contains a fungus-fighting ingredient. If you’re prescribed a prescription drug to treat ringworm of the scalp, your healthcare provider may suggest you pick up an OTC shampoo that contains ketoconazole, such as Nizoral. This product usually can be used every three or four days just as you would a regular shampoo (wash, rinse, and repeat) for up to eight weeks.

Prescriptions

There are a few situations and types of fungal infections for which it’s necessary to use a prescription antifungal medication to treat ringworm.

• Ringworm on the skin that doesn’t respond to OTC treatment. If ringworm doesn’t go away after using a topical medication for the full amount of time directed, see a dermatologist. A stronger prescription medication may do the trick. For infections that get worse or don’t go away, there are prescription topical products such as Loprox cream (ciclopirox), Spectazole cream (econazole nitrate), and Oxistat cream or lotion (oxiconazole nitrate).
• Tinea capitas (ringworm on the scalp) or tinea barbae (ringworm of the beard).  Fungal infections on the scalp must be treated with a prescription antifungal. Examples include Grifulvin V or Gris-PEG (griseofulvin), Onmel or Sporanox (itraconazole), terbinafine, and Diflucan (fluconazole). Sometimes a healthcare provider will prescribe prescription-strength ketoconazole shampoo to treat stubborn ringworm on the scalp. It is used just once.

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Natural Remedies

For the moment, the best way to treat most types of ringworm is with medication. But there has been some preliminary research to suggest that there may be alternatives that will work in some cases, for some people. Note that the options below haven’t been tested enough to recommend, but if you’re interested in an alternative to drugs for treating a ringworm infection, it can’t hurt to run these ideas by your healthcare provider to see if they might be an option for you.

Tea Tree Oil

Some preliminary research has found that Melaleuca alternifolia, an essential oil known as tea tree oil that’s widely used in aromatherapy, may help cure ringworm affecting the feet. For instance, a 2002 study published in the Australasian Journal of Dermatology compared solutions containing either 25 percent tea tree oil or 50 percent tea tree oil with a placebo to treat athlete’s foot. Subjects applied one of the three options to areas affected with a fungal infection twice a day for four weeks.

At the end of the study, nearly three-quarters of the people who used the 25 percent solution had a significant improvement in their infection and more than half who used the 50 percent solution improved, while only 39 percent of the placebo group saw an improvement. 

Garlic Extract

Ajoene, which is a natural compound extracted from garlic, shows promise in the treatment of ringworm. For example, a 1999 study from the German journal Arzneimittel-Forschung found that a gel containing ajoene helped treat tinea cruris (jock itch) and tinea corporisn (ringworm on the skin).

Similarly, in a small study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology in 2000, ajoene was more effective than terbinafine (which is the active ingredient in Lamisil) in treating athlete’s foot. For the study, researchers divided 70 subjects into three groups. One group used a topical medication containing 0.6 percent ajoene, the second group used 1 percent ajoene, and the third group used 1 percent terbinafine. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• What causes ringworm?

  Ringworm is caused by one of three types of fungus, or dermatophyte—Trichopyton, Microsporum, or Epidermophyton. These organisms thrive on dead keratin, a protein on the top layer of skin and in the hair and nails.Ringworm is highly contagious and often occurs when someone touches another person or an animal that has the infection.

• What are the best over-the-counter medications for ringworm?

  The medications you can buy without a prescription to treat ringworm are called antifungals. They all work by killing the spores that allow fungi to reproduce and come in different formulations. The best one for you will depend in large part on where the ringworm rash is located. If it’s between your toes, for example, it may be easiest to use an antifungal spray or powder. If you have ringworm on your scalp, an OTC production will not be an option; you will need to take a prescription oral medication.

• When will my ringworm symptoms go away once I start treatment?

  That depends on the body part that’s affected, the severity of the infection, and the type of medication you’re on, among other factors. Some people notice their ringworm starts to improve after just a few days, but it’s more likely it will take two to four weeks for your symptoms to disappear completely if you’re using a topical medication. Even if your symptoms are gone soon after you start treatment, it’s important to continue using medication for as long as your healthcare provider prescribes or, if you’re using an OTC product, the label recommends.

• What can I do to make ringworm heal faster?

  Medications for ringworm are highly effective, but you can help them along by taking certain measures:

  • Keep the affected area clean, dry and covered.
  • Wash your hands immediately after touching a ringworm rash.
  • Put on fresh clothing every day.
  • Wash all items you take off before wearing them again. Wash towels before using them again.
  • If you get sweaty, take a shower or bath; use a fresh towel to dry yourself completely.

• Will ringworm go away without treatment?

  It’s possible, but it would likely take months for that to happen. The fungi that cause ringworm can live for up to nearly two years if they’re in the warm, moist environment where they thrive.Untreated ringworm can cause skin to become cracked and open to bacterial infection, so it’s best to treat it. And if you wait too long to treat ringworm, it can spread and become much harder to manage.

• Why does my skin still itch even though the ringworm rash is gone?

  Even after the rash disappears, some ringworm symptoms such as itching and redness may linger as your skin continues to heal. If after two weeks of treating your ringworm you still have symptoms that bother you, see a healthcare provider. Do not use a steroid to ease the itch: These medications weaken the immune system and could exacerbate a fungal infection rather than help heal it.To treat itching caused by ringworm, you can apply a cool, wet washcloth to the area for 20 to 30 minutes.

• Will my ringworm be contagious once I start treating it?

  Yes, but not for long. After 48 hours of treatment, ringworm usually is no longer easily spread. Note, however, if you have a pet with ringworm, they’re likely to stay contagious for up to three weeks once you start treating them. This is important to know since ringworm can sometimes be passed from animals to humans.

Treatment & Outcomes of Dermatophytes | Ringworm | Types of Diseases | Fungal Diseases

Athlete’s foot can usually be treated with non-prescription medication applied to the skin.

The treatment for ringworm depends on its location on the body and how serious the infection is. Some forms of ringworm can be treated with non-prescription (“over-the-counter”) medications, but other forms of ringworm need treatment with prescription antifungal medication.

• Ringworm on the skin like athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) and jock itch (tinea cruris) can usually be treated with non-prescription antifungal creams, lotions, or powders applied to the skin for 2 to 4 weeks. There are many non-prescription products available to treat ringworm, including:
  • Clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex)
  • Miconazole (Aloe Vesta Antifungal, Azolen, Baza Antifungal, Carrington Antifungal, Critic Aid Clear, Cruex Prescription Strength, DermaFungal, Desenex, Fungoid Tincture, Micaderm, Micatin, Micro-Guard, Miranel, Mitrazol, Podactin, Remedy Antifungal, Secura Antifungal)
  • Terbinafine (Lamisil)
  • Ketoconazole (Xolegel)

alert icon

Learn more about how steroid creams can make ringworm worse.

For non-prescription creams, lotions, or powders, follow the directions on the package label. Contact your healthcare provider if your infection doesn’t go away or gets worse.

• Ringworm on the scalp (tinea capitis) usually needs to be treated with prescription antifungal medication taken by mouth for 1 to 3 months. Creams, lotions, or powders don’t work for ringworm on the scalp. Prescription antifungal medications used to treat ringworm on the scalp include:
  • Griseofulvin (Grifulvin V, Gris-PEG)
  • Terbinafine
  • Itraconazole (Onmel, Sporanox)
  • Fluconazole (Diflucan)

You should contact your healthcare provider if:

• Your infection gets worse or doesn’t go away after using non-prescription medications.
• You or your child has ringworm on the scalp. Ringworm on the scalp needs to be treated with prescription antifungal medication.

Ringworm (body) – Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis

Your doctor might be able to diagnose ringworm simply by looking at it. Your doctor may take skin scrapings from the affected area so that they can be examined under a microscope.

Treatment

If over-the-counter treatments don’t work, you may need prescription-strength antifungal medications — such as a lotion, cream or ointment that you apply to the affected skin. If your infection is particularly severe or extensive, your doctor might prescribe antifungal pills.

Lifestyle and home remedies

For a mild case of ringworm, try these self-care tips.

• Keep the affected area clean and dry.
• Apply an over-the-counter antifungal lotion, cream or ointment such as clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF) or terbinafine (Lamisil AT) as directed on the packaging.

Preparing for your appointment

Your family doctor or a skin specialist (dermatologist) can diagnose ringworm of the body. Here are some tips to help you get ready for your appointment.

What you can do

Your time with your doctor is limited, so preparing a list of questions helps you make the most of your appointment. List your questions from most important to least important in case time runs out. For ringworm, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What might be causing the signs and symptoms?
• Are tests needed to confirm the diagnosis?
• What is the best treatment?
• Is this condition temporary or chronic?
• Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you’re prescribing?
• Can I wait to see if the condition goes away on its own?
• What can I do to prevent the infection from spreading?
• What skin care routines do you recommend while the condition heals?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions, such as:

• When did you first notice your symptoms?
• What did the rash look like when it first started?
• Have you had this type of rash in the past?
• Does a pet or family member already have ringworm?
• Is the rash painful or itchy?
• Have you used any medications on it already? If so, what?

Sept. 24, 2021

Show references

1. Allmon A, et al. Common skin rashes in children. American Family Physician. 2015;92:211.
2. Ferri FF. Tinea corporis. In: Ferri’s Clinical Advisor 2020. Elsevier; 2020. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Aug. 8, 2019.
3. Office of Patient Education. Fungal infection: Ringworm of the body. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; 2010.
4. Goldstein AO, et al. Dermatophyte (tinea) infections. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Aug. 12, 2019.
5. AskMayoExpert. Superficial fungal infection. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; 2019.
6. Ringworm risk and prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/ringworm/risk-prevention.html. Accessed Aug. 12, 2019.
7. Kelly AP, et al. Fungal and yeast infections. In: Taylor and Kelly’s Dermatology for Skin of Color. 2nd ed. McGraw-Hill Education; 2016. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed July 14, 2021.
8. Mukwende M, et al. Basics. In: Mind the Gap: A Handbook of Clinical Signs in Black and Brown Skin. St. George’s University of London; 2020. https://www.blackandbrownskin.co.uk/mindthegap. Accessed July 14, 2021.

Life

Nystatin 

Nystatin (Nystin, Mycostatin and multiple other names) is a polyene antifungal originally isolated from Streptomyces noursei in 1950 by Elizabeth Lee Hazen and Rachel Fuller Brown. It was named after the laboratories in which they worked in 1954 – New York State Department of Health. Streptomyces noursei is a soil organism isolated from a farm (owned by William Nourse). It was first used in patients and licensed for use in the 1950’s. It was patented in 1957 and all royalties donated to research. Like all polyenes, it binds to ergosterol in the fungal cell membrane, leading to potassium loss and fungal cell death.

Dose & Delivery

Nystatin is only used topically and dosing is described in units. For vaginal candidiasis, pessaries of 100mg are give daily for 6 days, 200mg for 3 days and 500mg as a single dose. Alternatively 1%, 2% or 10% vaginal cream delivering roughly the same doses as pessaries, may be used, for the same durations. Nystatin cream is also used to treat penile candidiasis (balanitis).

Nystatin 10mg lozenges or troches are used to treat oral candidiasis. They are taken 5 times daily for 14 days for treatment, or 3 times daily for prevention of oral candidiasis.

Most topical skin preparations are 1% cream, lotion or spray, which should be applied 2 or 3 times daily for 2-4 weeks. Nystatin is effective for seborrheic dermatitis, nappy rash due to Candida, some cases of ringworm, tinea cruris and athlete’s foot. A 1% solution can be used for otitis externa. For inflammatory conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, combined preparations with topical corticosteroid are helpful.

Fungi – the drug is active against        

Nystatin is active against most Candida spp. as well as Cryptococcus neoformans, Aspergillus spp., Histoplasma capsulatum, Blastomyces dermatitidis, Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, Sporothrix schenckii. Nystatin has also been used to treat other fungal problems as Dutch Elm disease and to restore water-damaged mouldy artwork.

Some nystatin resistance is documented in Candida albicans, especially among oral isolates in patients with AIDS treated with Nystatin. Typical rates of resistance, in Candida albicans in a general hospital are 3-6%.

Metabolism distribution and excretion                 

Nystatin is practically insoluble in water. Applied on the skin it penetrates on the surface layer (epidermis), with no systemic absorption. Between 3-10% is absorbed systemically after vaginal administration. Nystatin is metabolised by the liver.

Drug/ Drug interactions                      

There are very few drug/drug interactions with Nystatin. Pessaries of clotimazole may damage latex condoms or diaphragms, and additional contraceptive measures are wise. View drug interaction database.

Side effects                 

Nystatin is generally well tolerated but nausea, vomiting, unpleasant mouth and pruritus (itching) have been reported with oral lozenges. Local skin irritation and a burning sensation are reported after use on the skin. Nystatin may be given in pregnancy.

Structure of nystatin

Canadian Pharmacy: Buy Aristocort Online

Aristocort product description

Drug uses

Aristocort is a corticosteroid with mainly glucocorticoid activity. The drug provides an anti-allergic, immunosuppressive, and anti-inflammatory effect. Aristocort inhibits connective tissue reaction during inflammation and reduces scar tissue regeneration. In addition, the drug relieves swelling, itching, and redness.

Immunosuppressant Aristocort can be administered to patients by intramuscular, intradermal, and intra-articular ways. Glucocorticoid Aristocort is effective in treatment of:

• allergic states
• endocrine disorders
• rheumatic disorders
• hematologic disorders
• dermatologic diseases
• gastrointestinal diseases

Duration of Aristocort application depends on the pathology nature and the treatment efficiency. Depending on the specific disease, an initial dosage for adults may vary from 3 mg to 48 mg per day. An initial dose for children may vary from 0.11 to 1.6 mg per kg of the body weight, divided in three doses.

Missed dose

The patient should be aware that the prescribed dosage regimen should be strictly complied during treatment with glucocorticoid Aristocort, and if the dose of Aristocort is accidentally missed, the drug should be taken as soon as possible.

If it is nearly time for the next dose of the immunosuppressant, the missed dose of Aristocort is recommended to skip, and to continue with regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses of Aristocort at once, as it causes overdose and side effects.

More information

Patients are not recommended to abruptly stop taking corticosteroid Aristocort, since it may lead to adrenal insufficiency. Extra caution should be taken by patients with renal insufficiency, hypertension, or osteoporosis while on the drug. During treatment with corticosteroids, the patients are not advised to be vaccinated. Corticosteroids may reduce the resistance to infections and mask the symptoms.

Storage

Aristocort drug should be protected from moisture, sunlight, and freezing and be stored at temperature of 20°C to 25°C, out of the children’s reach.

Aristocort safety information

Warnings

Aristocort should not be indicated to patients with fungal skin infections, cutaneous tuberculosis, viral skin infections (such as shingles, varicella, and cold sores). Corticosteroid Aristocort is not recommended for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.

The glucocorticoid drug should be avoided in dysmature infants because it contains benzyl alcohol. It is recommended to be prescribed with extra caution to patients suffering from diverticulitis, nonspecific ulcerative colitis, and peptic ulcer since Aristocort increases the risk of gastrointestinal perforation.

Particular caution is recommended while taking Aristocort for the patients with an increased risk of osteoporosis (for example, in post-menopausal women). Under corticosteroid influence, bone density may decrease, leading to weakened and fragile bones making them more prone to fractures.

Disclaimer
Information about Aristocort is intended to increase awareness of this anti-inflammatory drug, and in any way should not be used as the recommendations provided by the attending physician. The online pharmacy disclaims all damages of any kind (without limitation) arisen from the use of any and all published information about Aristocort.

Aristocort side effects

Aristocort may cause variety of unwanted effects whilst be used, most frequent of them are as follows: headache and exacerbation of infectious diseases. Other common unwanted effects involve the skin, such as dry skin, redness, rash, itching, irritation, skin cracking, and epidermal atrophy.Aristocort corticosteroid is rarely reported to cause arthralgia, arrhythmia, emotional instability, and weight gain. In case of such unwanted effects, as telangiectasia, anaphylaxis, or angioedema, the treatment with Aristocort should be immediately stopped.

90,000 “How to treat lichen in a cat?” – Yandex.Q

Not really my area of ​​expertise, but I will answer, because I recently cured two cats of lichen. This disease is extremely unpleasant, and some time ago, especially in the provinces, animals with lichen were simply euthanized, instead of being treated. It is good that now it will not occur to anyone, and there are high-quality drugs that can cure your pet. But this process is not easy, please be patient. Treatment for lichen is a rather expensive procedure, but believe me, it is better not to save money and buy the best and most effective drugs than to save money, get the whole family infected and still go back to the more expensive option.If it is not your pet that is sick, but you are thinking of taking a homeless cat, or a cat from a shelter and lichen bothers you, then you should not be afraid, this disease is treated, but if the animal’s lichen goes into a neglected form, it is at risk of getting sick with something else due to damage to the skin.

I’ll start with a disclaimer: before putting into practice everything that will be written further in this answer, it is imperative to visit a veterinarian and a dermatologist and get medical advice.Animal and human health is individual, and it’s best to make sure that the treatment plan that works for everyone else works for you too.

Lichen is a whole family of skin diseases of a different nature. Specifically, animal lichen is called ringworm and is caused by the dermatophyte fungi Trichophyton and Microsporum. You need to know the following things about him:

• ringworm is extremely contagious;
• Not only other animals, but also people can become infected with ringworm;
• Kittens are the hardest and the longest to be treated for this disease;
• lichen spores can live (not multiply, but simply live) on surfaces in an apartment and in the air;
• The lichen vaccinations are fictitious.

However, don’t be too scared, now let’s move on to prevention and therapy.

ISOLATE THE ANIMAL FROM OTHER ANIMALS AND PEOPLE

The sick animal must be immediately isolated in a separate room, preferably as free as possible from upholstered furniture, small objects, access to cabinets, shelves and other surfaces. The smaller and simpler the space, the less it will be infected and the easier it will be to handle it from settling lichen spores.

AFTER CONSULTATION WITH THE VETERINARIAN, START TREATMENT

1. Determine the lesions of the lichen under the Wood lamp.

The veterinarian will illuminate the animal with a Wood lamp – it shows the areas where dermatophytes have spread. Such areas under the lamp will glow with a greenish and bluish light. Ringworm is treated in two ways: systemic vnutrenny and external treatments. Separately, these two methods are much less effective.

2.External treatment of wool and leather with Imaverol.

External treatment with Imaverol. At the moment, this is the most effective remedy for ringworm, its main active ingredient is enilconazole. The product is expensive and difficult to obtain, it’s true. But it is better not to save money and buy it, because otherwise you risk spending even more on drugs that will not work and you will still return to imaverol. Imaverol can often be bought in a veterinary clinic in a syringe exactly as much as you need, paying for milliliters.Just check the expiration date of the bottle from which you will be taking the medicine.

Adult cats are often prescribed only spot treatment of lesions, and kittens are treated completely, that is, they are bathed in a small container with a solution. Imaverol is a syrupy liquid that is diluted with water in proportion according to the instructions and applied to the skin and hair of the animal. It is very important to treat the lesions as deeply as possible so that the product will definitely get on the skin. Imaverol significantly reduces the infectivity of foci.In general, it will take from 10 to 15 treatments that are performed 1 time in 3 days. After treatment, wrap the cat in a towel and hold it on your hands for about 20 minutes, not letting it groom itself, this is necessary so that the medicine acts on the skin and hair of the cat for a longer time. Then you can release it, for the animals themselves, the medicine is not toxic.

3. Taking the medicine inside – Irunin

Systemic treatment involves taking the medicine inside. This medicine is Irunin , which can be bought at a regular human pharmacy.There are many drugs with itraconazole, similar to Irunin, I have read reviews and reviews for a long time and I can say that he is the most effective among all.

Irunin are capsules, granules inside the capsule. It is given to the animal at the rate of 5 mg per 1 kg of body weight. It is most convenient to pour the contents of the capsule into an insulin syringe and cut off the “nose” from it, and so doze, adding to food. Irunin is treated according to the following scheme: the medicine is given once a day for a week, then a week – a break without medicine.This is repeated 2-3 times, that is, the total treatment time will be 4-6 weeks. Itraconazole, which is part of Irunin, accumulates in the hair of a cat after 15 days and prevents the spread of the fungus through the hair and its penetration deep into the hair.

4. Washing the animal with shampoo with 4% chlorhexidine.

Once a week (but not immediately after the treatment of the cat with imaverol), you need to wash the animal with a shampoo containing 4% chlorhexidine. This is a special shampoo sold at veterinary pharmacies.Do not try to save money and just pour chlorhexidine on the cat, or add it to regular shampoo, it will not work, the drug’s chlorhexidine has a different percentage of the drug. Washing stops with the treatment. It is best to wash your cat with this shampoo before the day when imaverol treatment awaits it.

HYGIENE OF THE ROOMS

1. Treatment of carriers and beds with Ecocide C

The apartment will require very careful treatment with disinfectants.The carrier, plastic or fabric, will need to be treated with a special agent – “Ecocide C”. Dilute the product according to the instructions and soak the carrier in it, the exposure time is 60 minutes. The same tool can be used to treat the floor, surfaces and walls of the room where the sick cat is kept every few days. Difficulty with exposure: you need to stand for an hour before rinsing.

2. Wet cleaning of floors and walls with Glorix

For cleaning premises, you can use Glorix with an antibacterial effect.

Benzalkonium chloride is used as a disinfecting component, which is used to treat groomers’ instruments in veterinary clinics. Wet cleaning should be done at least once a day and, if possible, wipe the walls at a height of 1 m from the floor.

3. Do not use bleach and vacuum cleaner during cleaning.

Do not use bleach for cleaning, because it is toxic to the animal and chemical poisoning can occur in the cat.

Do not use a vacuum cleaner in a room where a cat is kept.Again, due to the fact that lichen spores will scatter due to the air flow blown out by the blower.

4. Do not contact the animal physically.

It is necessary to minimize physical contact with a sick animal, do not take the cat in your arms, do not press it against your clothes. It is advisable to have special slippers in which you will walk in the room where the cat is kept and which you will take off when leaving there.

5. Quartz rooms with a special UV lamp

Buy a UV lamp for disinfection of rooms.The opinions of doctors about the effectiveness of UV lamps differ, but I read a scientific study of the effects of UV radiation, including on Trichophyton and Microsporum, which reports the following: scientists irradiated bacteria and fungi grown on different surfaces (metal, plastic, etc.) with different wavelengths and different periods of time. I will not bore you with details, because the research is not focused on dermatophytes, but they are mentioned there, both species. Both of them die after 75 minutes of quartzing with a UV lamp with a wavelength of 254 nm (!) This is very important, becauseBecause there is also a wavelength of 354, so it has no effect on them at all, while 254 kills them completely. This is written on page 48 of the scientific work. A variant of such a lamp is “Crystal BNB 01-11-001”.

IMPORTANT: animals, plants and people must be removed from the treated room, the windows must be closed. This type of UV lamp is corrosive and the room should be free from all living things. Do not look directly at this lamp, otherwise you may burn the cornea.It is best to use sun glasses, turn it on quickly and leave the room, and immediately ventilate it after finishing the treatment. The UV lamp can be used to continue the treatment after the animal is cured, performing it once every 3-5 days.

PREVENTION OF HUMAN INFECTION

Despite active treatment and all the precautions described above, the risk of infection in you and other animals is still extremely high. In this regard, you need to take a number of precautions so as not to get infected yourself.

1. Wash your hands with tar soap

Buy tar soap, wash your hands after each, even minimal contact with an animal. It is also advisable to wash your feet up to the knee, because the bulk of the spores will be closer to the floor, plus cats like to rub against their feet.

2. Wash with a special shampoo

Buy a prophylactic shampoo, for example Mycozoral. It is applied both on the head and on the body, kept for 3-5 minutes, and then washed off.

3.Take Irunin’s course on drink

After consulting a dermatologist , take Irunin tablets as a preventive measure. This is very important and will most likely be the only guarantee that you will not get ringworm.

5. Wash clothes and linen for at least 3 hours at normal temperature

Regularly wash clothes and linen for two cycles in a row with a total duration of 3 hours or more. Studies show that temperature does not affect the elimination of spores, but washing time does.

6. Protect other animals

If there are other animals in the apartment, Irunin’s prevention will not be superfluous either. After consultation with a veterinarian can be given to other animals Irunin, washed once a week with shampoo with Chlorhexidine, wipe the surface of the wool with a sponge soaked in Imaverol. If the main treatment is over and you let the cat out into the apartment, then the main places of risk in other cats are the ears and muzzle – in these places the hair is the shortest.

THE TREATMENT IS ENDED. WHAT’S NEXT?

1. Preparation for a control appointment with a veterinarian

Next, you need to go to a control appointment with a veterinarian. It should be at least two weeks after you stop giving your cat irunin and treating it with imaverol.

2. Sowing for lichen

Not all hair that glows under a wood lamp is infected, not all that do not glow are healthy. The most reliable test is seeding.A scraping is taken from the former foci, after which it is placed in a nutrient medium and the sample is observed from 14 to 21 days. If nothing grows in the nutrient medium, your cat is finally healthy.

3. Control and observation of the animal, protection against re-infection

It is necessary to closely monitor the animal: whether the cat has begun to scratch suspiciously, whether it has bald spots, in case of any alarms, immediately run to the veterinarian. Re-infection from the environment is not excluded if you are not very careful when cleaning and irradiating with a UV lamp.

I wish you patience, be attentive and get well soon!

one of the varieties of ringworm

Many cat owners are faced with the fact that their pets suddenly begin to lose hair, and the resulting receding hairline turns red and inflamed. These are the first signs of one of the ringworm varieties – microsporia. This skin disease affects not only stray cats, but also animals that never leave the apartment, since the spores of this fungus can get into the house on the shoes and clothes of the owners of pets.Microsporia is contagious. People can also be exposed to it, therefore, when the first signs of this disease appear, it is necessary to urgently consult a specialist and undergo a course of complex treatment.

The main symptoms and features of microsporia

The fungus of the genus Microsporon is very dangerous for kittens, but its spores also affect adults. Usually, microsporia in cats is transmitted through contact of a sick animal with a healthy one, especially in conditions of reduced immunity in the latter.Most often, the incubation period does not exceed an interval of 14 days. However, sometimes the activation of microsporia occurs only under conditions of exacerbation of a chronic illness or in stressful situations.

The disease can take the following forms:

1. Hidden, which is most often exposed to strong cats from the age of one year. A sick animal develops dandruff and a small rash, tarnishing and active hair loss.
2. Washed, which tends to form small spots on which the coat stops growing.The skin in these places is covered with dry scales that have a gray tint. In this state, bald patches can be for years.
3. Superficial, characterized by the proliferation of affected areas and the occurrence of itching. The skin in areas not overgrown with wool is swollen and slightly blue.
4. Follicular, characterized by the development of an inflammatory process. Usually this form develops in the absence of treatment. Cats constantly scratch problem areas of their bodies, as a result of which wounds appear.Small spots enlarge, forming large foci of inflammation.

Pet diagnostic methods

Examination of sick cats is carried out by a veterinarian. The animal therapist in our clinic can help with this. Leave a request and we will contact you or call us at the phone number listed on the website. The specialist can make an accurate diagnosis using one of the following methods:

1. Operation of a special black light lamp in a dark room.Wood’s lamp is directed at the animal. The hairs affected by fungal spores will glow green.
2. Removal of scrapings from the affected area of ​​the skin.
3. Thorough and in-depth examination of the base of the coat.

Treatment recommendations

Microsporia in cats is cured in 45 days. Throughout this period, it is necessary to periodically consult a doctor for additional advice. After following all the veterinarian’s advice, the cat is re-examined and the necessary tests are taken.

Usually the doctor prescribes antifungal ointments and tablets. Before treating the affected skin area, it must be disinfected by wiping with soapy water or a special solution. After applying the cream, it is recommended to apply a bandage so that the pet does not lick off the protective layer.

As agents intended for topical application, usually suggest:

• Micoseptin;
• Miconazole;
• Exoderil.

Treatment also includes bathing cats in shampoos such as Nizoral and Nezopharm.However, the use of ointments will not be enough. It is necessary to use other drugs in tablet form, in particular:

• Fluconazole.
• Itraconazole.
• Griseofulvin.
• Nystatin.

Tablets are usually mixed with feed and given over 21 days. Microsporia in cats is accompanied by severe itching, which can be avoided by the Stop Itching suspension. Treatment of the follicular form of the disease is characterized by the additional intake of antibiotics.The listed medicines are combined with vitamins and immunity stimulants. Liver support medications are also needed. It is strictly forbidden to replace medications on your own and refuse to take some of them.

Recommended preventive measures:

1. Eating only high-quality feed containing nutrients.
2. Conducting vaccination and treatment of an animal against fleas on an ongoing basis.
3. Regular hygiene not only of the pet, but also of all its household items (bowls, toys, bedding).
4. Avoid contact of the pet with individuals living on the street.

90,000 Early signs of lichen in a dog – treatment methods

Types of lichen in dogs

Today science distinguishes several types of lichen in dogs.

Each of them differs in the methods of treatment, symptoms and causes of occurrence:

1. Clipper. This type of lichen is most common in pets. An animal can become infected with it not only on the street, but also directly on the territory of its home. Ringworm in dogs is caused by spores of the fungus, which usually “hide” in the ground, on objects with which the dog is most often in contact, or directly on another dog. This type of lichen is very contagious and dangerous. It affects the entire body of the pet with incredible speed, as a result of which it may even die. The main symptom of the disease is wrinkling, and then complete loss of hair.In the affected areas, the skin becomes pink, reddish, or brown. A person can also become infected with ringworm.
2. Pityriasis. Causes a pathogenic yeast fungus. He can live for a long time on the wool of a healthy animal, not showing himself, and wait for his immunity to weaken. After that, it begins to spread very quickly throughout the pet’s body, leaving bald areas with reddened skin on it.
3. Pink. This disease is the result of an allergic reaction when an internal infection occurs.Veterinarians believe that canine lichen rosacea occurs in animals with a genetic predisposition to it. It is completely impossible to cure it, it constantly manifests itself as soon as the pet’s immunity weakens. When affected by pink lichen, the dog’s hair falls out in spots, and the skin on the bald spot peels off and becomes pink, and then yellow.
4. Weeping. Occurs as an allergic reaction of the body to food, drugs, etc. It initially appears as small, hairless, swollen patches.Then, at the site of baldness, a papule with fluid appears, which constantly oozes, then festers and grows.

First symptoms of lichen in dogs

It is very difficult to identify the first symptoms of lichen in an animal. Indeed, most often after infection, it does not manifest itself for a long time and proceeds in a latent form. This period sometimes lasts up to two weeks.

To define a disease like lichen, you need to know how it manifests itself in the first stage on the body in dogs.

Lichen in dogs has the following symptoms:

• itching in one of the parts of the pet’s body;
• cracks appear on the skin, it may change color, the dog may scratch the affected area;

90,011 itching spreads rapidly throughout the body;

• the animal behaves sluggishly, apathetically.

Lichen primarily affects the paws, abdomen and muzzle. If the first signs are detected, you should immediately contact your veterinarian. It is worth remembering that this disease very quickly flows from a mild stage to an extremely severe one.

Methods for the treatment of lichen in dogs

How to treat lichen in a dog – only a doctor knows who has carried out a full diagnosis and identified the exact cause of the disease. Only a comprehensive treatment of lichen in dogs can achieve a good result.

It is usually directed to:

• destruction of microorganisms that caused the disease;
• prevention of the multiplication of pathogenic microorganisms in healthy areas;
• removal of pain, itching;
• restoration of weakened immunity.

For this, drugs are used for external or internal use. In the initial stages, drugs for external use are usually used: ointment, gel, cream, spray, etc. If the lesion is already systemic, then drugs for internal use must also be used.

What kind of drug is needed for treatment can only be said by a doctor after diagnosing a pet.

Among external drugs, the most often prescribed:

• Lekaderm;
• Sanoderm;
• Miconazole;
• Fungin;
• Clotrimazole;
• Imaverol;
• Zinc ointment;
• Ichthyol ointment, etc.d.

Among internal preparations:

• Fluconazole;
• Nystatin;
• Diazolin;
• Amphotericin;
• Glycopin;
• Aminovite;
• Lactobifadol, etc.

Many pet owners who do not know how to cure lichen in a dog resort to traditional treatments. In this case, it should be understood that lichen is a dangerous disease, which, if not cured in a timely manner, can lead to the death of the pet.The fungus spreads very quickly throughout the dog’s body and aggravates its condition. Therefore, alternative methods of treatment can only be used as additional methods, together with the methods that the doctor determined after examining the animal.

Deprive the dog from home treatment – treat the infected areas of the coat with apple cider vinegar, tar, garlic, etc. Only a doctor can talk about the effectiveness of such treatment. Therefore, consult your veterinarian before applying anything to the affected area of ​​shingles.

How to speed up the healing process?

In order for the healing process to take place as soon as possible, you should unquestioningly follow all the doctor’s recommendations. Apply all prescribed drugs strictly according to the instructions. You cannot arbitrarily change the course of treatment. The pet owner must understand that the treatment of ringworm and other types of lichen in dogs takes a lot of time, so you need to be patient and follow the doctor’s recommendations.

Also, owners should not forget about precautions during treatment.Since most types of lichen can be transmitted to humans, attention must be paid to personal safety. Each time after treating the affected areas of the dog’s skin, disinfect your hands with soap or an antiseptic. All things that the animal has come into contact with must be soaked in a disinfecting composition, and then washed at a high temperature. This is especially true for the sleeping place of the dog. It is better to cover the sleeping place with a disposable diaper for the duration of the illness and often change it to a new one.

Children cannot play with a pet diagnosed with lichen.The skin of all family members where the sick dog lives should be examined daily. If you find peeling or age spots, you should immediately consult a doctor.

If you identify lichen in a timely manner and consult a doctor, it will be much easier to cure it. Therefore, regularly examine the body of your four-legged pet and pay more attention to it.

Is nystatin used to treat itching in athletes?

Ketoconazole Cream is prescribed to treat fungal infections such as pruritus , athlete’s foot, ringworm, dandruff and tinea versicolor. Nystatin is an oral antifungal agent used to treat intestinal candidiasis.

Also, does nystatin help with itching?

Tips and Tricks: Nystatin soothes all skin irritations, eg itching , but no help for any type of infection.

So how effective is Nystatin?

Composition, dosage and duration Nystatin Treatment

27.28 Studies of infants, children, and HIV / AIDS patients with oral candidiasis have shown a clinical cure rate of 9–63.5%, and the rate of mycological cure was 5.6–13% when using the suspension.

30 Related questions, answers found

How quickly does Nystatin work?

Use this medication 4 times daily or as directed by your doctor. It may take several days to several months to complete treatment.

What are the side effects of nystatin powder?

Common Nystop Topical Powder side effects include:

• Skin irritation,
• itching,
• rash
• burning,
• eczema, or.
• redness.

What are the side effects of nystatin powder?

Common Nystop Topical Powder side effects include:

• Skin irritation,
• itching,
• rash
• burning,
• eczema, or.
• redness.

How to use nystatin powder?

Apply of this medication to affected skin, usually twice a day or as directed by a doctor.The dosage and duration of treatment depends on the type of infection being treated. Apply This is more frequent than prescribed. Apply enough powder lightly cover the affected area and part of the surrounding skin.

How long should nystatin powder be used?

Apply this medication to to affected skin, usually twice a day or as directed by a physician. The dosage and duration of treatment depends on the type of infection being treated. Do do not use it more than often than prescribed. Apply enough powder to lightly cover the affected area and part of the surrounding skin.

Is the powder suitable for itching in athletes?

In most cases pruritus can be treated without medication. “You can use a topical antifungal cream like Gold Bond Healing Cream. Powder , Tinactin or Lamisilointment, ”says Dr. Modi.“If that doesn’t work, you can go to your doctor and get a prescription lotion for this fungus. powder or cream. “

Is nystatin a steroid?

Nystatin is an antifungal medicine that fights infections caused by fungus. Triamcinolone is a steroid . It reduces the effects of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation. Nystatin and topical triamcinolone (skin) is a combination medicine used to treat skin infections caused by fungus or yeast.

Is nystatin an antibiotic?

Is nystatin an antibiotic?

Nystatin polyene antifungal antibiotic obtained from Streptomyces nuri. Structural formula: Nystatin Cream USP is for dermatological use.

How expensive is Nystatin?

Free Yourself Cost for Nystatin Oral Suspension (100,000 Units / ml) costs about $ 20 for 60 milliliters, depending on the pharmacy you visit.

Are nystatin and miconazole the same?

Miconazole is mainly used topically to treat ringworm, including athlete’s itch and athlete’s foot. In the UK, miconazole can be used to treat neonatal thrush, while the alternative nystatin is approved only for patients over one month old, but drug interactions are possible.

How to use Nyamyc powder?

Apply of this medication to affected skin, usually twice a day or as directed by a doctor.The dosage and duration of treatment depends on the type of infection being treated. Apply This is more frequent than prescribed. Apply enough powder lightly cover the affected area and part of the surrounding skin.

How long does it take for nystatin to act on a yeast infection?

when should start medication working ? Your child should begin to recover after taking the medication for 2 days.They should continue to take medicine even after they feel better, as takes until they kill all the fungus.

What is the active ingredient of nystatin powder?

Nystatin is a polyene antifungal antibiotic obtained from Streptomyces noursei.

What can you use for a yeast infection?

This medicine has been used to to treat various skin conditions (eg eczema, dermatitis, allergies, rashes). Triamcinolone reduces the swelling, itching, and redness that can occur with these conditions. This medication is a moderate to strong corticosteroid.

What can you use for a yeast infection?

For non-albicans yeast infections , your doctor may prescribe mycostatin ( nystatin ) vaginal cream or tablet to be applied or take daily for 14 days.With treatment , your yeast infection will take one to seven days (the duration of treatment depends on which product you are using).

What is the fastest way to get rid of a yeast infection?

Home remedies

1. Non-prescription treatments. Antifungal medications in the form of creams or pessaries can be purchased without a prescription to treat yeast infections.
2. Boric acid.Boric acid vaginal capsules may help women with yeast infections.
3. Tea tree oil.
4. Probiotic supplements.
5. Natural yoghurt.
6. Coconut oil.
7. Garlic.
8. Oregano oil.

Is eczema a fungus?

Bacteria, fungus and virus can cause infection in eczema . A bacterium called Staphylococcus aureus that multiplies on wet and broken skin is very common in eczema .Staphylococcus aureus infection causes eczema worse, inhibits healing and multiplies as eczema becomes more severe.

What does Candida do to your body?

Candidiasis refers to the overgrowth of Candida albicans. A leaky gut is a a more serious consequence of candidiasis occurring when Candida Causes what is the intestinal wall becomes permeable and allows partially digested proteins and other toxins to enter the body .

Can Apple Cider Vinegar Cure Yeast Infection?

apple cider vinegar

One popular yeast infection medicine apple cider vinegar bath. An apple cider vinegar bathtub is not the same as douching, the purpose of which is to flush out all bacteria (good and bad) from the vagina. This makes you more prone to re-occurring yeast infection .

Can Nystatin cream for toenail fungus be used?

MYKOSTATIN ® ( Nystatin ) Topical Powder contains 100,000 USP nystatin units per gram dispersed in talc.

How to use Nystop powder?

How to use Nystop 100,000 units / gram topical powder . Usage This medicine is on the skin only. Clean and dry the area to be treated thoroughly. Apply this medication to the affected skin, usually twice a day, or as directed by your doctor.

Should nystatin burn?

Common side effects of Nystatin Cream include skin irritation, itching, or redness.Tell your doctor if you have any side effects such as severe burning , itching, rash, or pain where nystatin cream is applied.

Should nystatin burn?

OTC antifungal creams, ointments or suppositories (with miconazole or clotrimazole) are the most common ways to treat yeast infections These can take 1 to 7 days. Your doctor may also prescribe you a single dose of fluconazole (an antifungal medicine).

What are the ingredients in Nystatin powder?

Nystatin powder contains Nystatin is a polyene antifungal antibiotic obtained from Streptomyces nuri. Nystatin Topical Powder is intended for dematological use. Nystatin Topical Powder contains 100,000 USP nystatin units per gram dispersed in talc.

What is Nyamyc powder used for?

Nyamyc (nystatin topical powder ) is an antifungal antibiotic indicated for the treatment of cutaneous or mucocutaneous fungal infections caused by Candida albicans and other susceptible Candida species.Common side effects of Nyamyc include: allergic reactions. burning.

What is the size of nystatin powder?

The molecular weight of Nystatin is 926.1. Structural formula: Nystatin Topical Powder USP is intended for dermatological use. Nystatin Topical powder USP contains 100,000 USP nystatin units per gram dispersed in calc.

How to use Nystalocal cream?

This medicine is intended for use on the skin, as directed only.Wash and dry your hands in front of with . Clean and dry the affected area. then apply Apply a small amount of the medicine in a thin layer to the skin and rub in gently, usually twice a day (morning and evening) or as directed by a doctor.

What is the active ingredient of nystatin powder?

Nyamyc (nystatin topical powder ) is an antifungal antibiotic indicated for the treatment of cutaneous or mucocutaneous fungal infections caused by Candida albicans and other susceptible Candida species.Common side effects of Nyamyc include: allergic reactions. burning.

Is there a prescription nystatin?

Skip drug description and prescription settings. Nystatin price list. Nystatin (Mikostatin, Nyamik, Nistop) is an inexpensive drug used to treat certain types of fungal or yeast infections. Generic Nystatin is covered by most Medicare programs and plans, but some pharmacy coupons or cash prices may be lower.

Is nystatin triamcinolone available over the counter?

MYKOSTATIN ® ( Nystatin ) Topical Powder contains 100,000 USP nystatin units per gram dispersed in talc.

EXODERIL (cream and solution) of the Sandoz company

So, based on their chemical structure, antifungal drugs are divided into four main groups: polyenes, azoles, allylamines and morpholines; there are only a few drugs that do not belong to any of them (Chen S. C.A., Sorrell T.C., 2007).

If we characterize each group of antifungal drugs, it should be noted that the true fungicidal effect on the fungal cell is exerted almost exclusively by drugs from the group of allylamines – terbinafine and naftifine (Exoderil) (Kyle A.A., Dahl M.V., 2004).

Preparations from the group of polyenes, which include nystatin and natamycin (Pimaficin), are poorly absorbed, and therefore can be used in pregnant women, breastfeeding women and children.

A large group – azoles. In high concentrations, like polyenes, they can have a direct physicochemical effect on the membranes of fungi, thereby exhibiting a fungicidal effect.

The drug amorolfin (Lotseril) in the form of a varnish for the treatment of onychomycosis, which has been absent on the Ukrainian pharmaceutical market for several years, belongs to morpholines.

And the last group of drugs to which EXODERIL ^® (naftifine hydrochloride) belongs are allylamines.

The direct fungicidal action of the drug is associated with its inhibitory effect on squalene epoxidase, which catalyzes one of the early stages of ergosterol synthesis by fungal cells. The fungicidal effect of EXODERIL, which avoids the recurrence of the disease, has been noted in relation to dermatophytes, aspergillus (mold fungi). In relation to yeast fungi, depending on the species, the drug has a fungistatic effect, which helps to inhibit the growth and reproduction of fungal cells.

The active ingredient EXODERIL quickly penetrates the skin and nail plates and creates stable antifungal concentrations in them, therefore, when applied topically, the drug is characterized by a rapid onset of action and allows an effect to be achieved with short-term treatment.

A special property of the active substance EXODERIL – naftifine hydrochloride – is that, in addition to antifungal action, it is capable of exerting an antibacterial effect on gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms, which are often noted in association with fungal infections.

The local anti-inflammatory effect, which the drug also has, contributes to the rapid elimination of symptoms of inflammation and itching, which favorably affects the clinical efficacy and, accordingly, the patient’s condition.

Thus, the drug prevents itching, leading to scratching of the skin, as well as the formation of an entrance gate for infection, and acts on bacterial agents that are often found in association with fungal infections.

EXODERIL ^® quickly penetrates the skin and forms stable antifungal concentrations, so it should only be used once a day. In this case, the clinical effect occurs quickly.

The drug can be used prophylactically after visiting the pool, sauna, beach, gym, in contact with fungal agents in everyday life. After external use, EXODERIL ^® is noted in the upper layers of the epidermis for another 10 days, and in sufficiently inhibitory concentrations and, of course, in view of the high efficiency of this drug.

EXODERIL ^® is quite safe, since it does not affect human liver enzymes, does not inhibit the microsomal cytochrome P-450 system of the liver, which leads to a high safety profile.

The presence of two dosage forms expands the scope of use of EXODERIL, and, depending on the form and localization of fungal lesions, one of them is preferred. The solution and cream do not have an unpleasant odor, are easy to apply, do not leave marks on clothes, and are quickly absorbed.

The high activity of EXODERIL against most pathogens that lead to fungal diseases makes it possible to use it in fungal diseases caused by dermatophytes, yeasts and molds. That is, it is used to treat dermatophytosis and candidal skin lesions of any localization. The dosage form should be chosen based on the characteristics of the disease.

So, with pityriasis (multicolored) lichen , the process is localized in the upper layers of the skin, and since there is no need for deep penetration of medicinal substances, the optimal form for treatment is a solution.

At localization of the process in the skin folds – axillary, inguinal, interdigital, under the mammary glands – it is necessary to use drugs that will not accumulate in them, disrupting skin respiration and becoming a favorable environment for the reproduction of microbes. For these reasons, a solution should be preferred (Gallagher S., 2005; Selden S., 2007; Richardson M.D., Warnock D.W., 2008).

With mycoses of the scalp (trichophytosis and microsporia), it is also better to use a solution that is easy to apply, does not clog the ducts of the sebaceous and sweat glands, does not stick the hair (Uretsky S., 2002).

At onychomycosis , the only drug of choice on our market is a solution, since ointments and creams do not penetrate the nail plate (Bodman M.A. et al., 2003).

So, the solution is a dosage form that is preferable in the treatment of pityriasis versicolor, mycoses of large folds, interdigital folds, scalp, onychomycosis and candidiasis of the same localization.

With mycoses of the hands and feet , which are accompanied by peeling and dryness, preference is given to a cream that eliminates dryness.When applied, the skin is softened and moisturized, cleared of scales and crusts, while maintaining its breathing, cooling, vasoconstrictor and anti-inflammatory effects are manifested (Marco C.A., 2007).

So, EXODERIL

^® has special properties that ensure the maximum effectiveness of local therapy:

– new active ingredient – naftifine hydrochloride;

– rapid onset of clinical effect;

– high security profile;

– proven high performance;

– the ability to use by patients of different age groups;

– the presence of antibacterial, antimycotic and anti-inflammatory effects.o

Daria Polyakova

How to treat lichen in cats (dermatophytosis)

Your cat has lichen. These words are able to confuse almost any person. This disease is shrouded in a mass of myths:

• lichen is not treated, and sick animals need to be euthanized
• shingles can only be contracted from animals
• a diagnosis of lichen can be established by shining a special lamp
• lichen can be cured by sprinkling the wound with gunpowder / sulfur / applying Yam ointment / vaccine injections / performing a shamanic dance with a tambourine

Which of this is fiction, and which is justified? How to understand that it is lichen? What to do if a cat has lichen? How to get out of the situation with a minimum of losses? How to prevent its occurrence? Let’s figure it out!

Who is lichen dangerous for? How can you get shingles?

Almost any animals and people get sick.You can become infected with shingles through direct contact with a sick animal or person, through hygiene items (combs, towels), animal care items, toys, ammunition, through the handrails in transport, digging in the sand or earth (hello to non-closing children’s sandboxes, in which they walk cats).

Pay attention! Cats may be asymptomatic carriers of lichen (they do not get sick themselves, but they carry spores). Having picked up a homeless cat on the street, be sure to show it to the veterinarian so that the pet is examined and the necessary research (which ones – we will consider below).

The good news is that not everyone who comes into contact with the pathogen will get sick.

The likelihood of getting sick depends on several factors:

• number of pathogen spores
• infectiousness of a specific species of lichen
• states of immunity of an animal or person (at risk those who have a decrease in immunity, cancer, viral diseases, who take drugs that suppress the immune response, the elderly / animals, children / kittens / puppies)
• some breeds of dogs and cats are more prone to the disease (Yorkshire terriers, Persian and Himalayan cats, long-haired cats are more likely to get sick than short-haired ones)
• Risks increase in places where many animals come into contact (shelters, nurseries, exhibitions)
• The risk is higher in animals that like to dig in the ground or come into contact with rodents.

What is lichen?

Lichen is a fungal disease. That’s right, scientifically, it’s called dermatophytosis. It affects the skin and its derivatives – hair, claws.

There are three types of dermatophyte fungi that cause skin diseases in pets: Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes.

Microsporum canis is the most common species in cats and dogs. In the environment, spores of this fungus can live up to 1.5-2 years! Some animals can be spore carriers and not show any skin lesions.

Microsporum gypseum lives in soil, Trichophyton mentagrophytes is more often carried by rodents.

How to understand that a cat has lichen?

Most common signs of lichen:

• Spontaneous hair loss, areas of baldness are usually rounded, often the skin in this place is scaly, there may be redness, scabs (crusts), rash
• Most often, lesions occur on the face, ears, paws, but can cover the whole body!
• There is usually no itching – that is, the animal does not itch

Sometimes there are lesions called “kerion” – clearly defined, raised above the skin nodes.More common in dogs (on the neck, head, limbs). It may be accompanied by itching and soreness, redness, crusts, baldness of this area.

How to diagnose lichen in a cat?

The diagnosis of lichen in a cat (dermatophytosis) cannot be made only on the basis of an examination! For diagnosis, a combination of 2-3 research methods is required.

There are several methods for diagnosing lichen:

1. The same “magic” lamp (Wood’s lamp) – a study using ultraviolet radiation of a certain spectrum.Simple, cheap, but not very angry. Since more than 50% (!) Of fungal colonies (dermatophytes) do not give a characteristic green glow. Therefore, if a doctor shines a light on a kitten and it “does not glow”, this does not exclude the possibility that the kitten is actually sick or not a carrier. And some artifacts (for example, talcum powder from medical gloves) can give a “false” glow. The method is used exclusively as an auxiliary. It is from the spot of the detected glow that the doctor will select the next analysis.
2. Trichoscopy (skin scraping) – examination of hair from the lesion site under a microscope. It is a more accurate diagnostic method. The detection of spores in the scraping will in most cases be a sufficient basis for a diagnosis. The absence of spores in the scraping does not exclude disease / carriage (with a probability of about 30%).
3. Sowing on a special nutrient medium is the most accurate method for diagnosing lichen (dermatophytosis). With the help of sowing, it is possible not only to confirm / exclude the disease, but also to identify carriers of dermatophyte spores, determine the type of pathogen, and also control the treatment.
4. PCR diagnostics method – allows you to identify the carriage.
5. Cytology or skin histology – usually used when kerion is suspected. It is rarely used, as it is expensive and not very affordable in our country.

That is, if you picked up a kitten and want to check it for lichen, the doctor will conduct a general examination, then:

1. Will conduct research with Wood’s lamp
2. No luminescence and no lesions – will offer to do sowing in order to exclude carriage.
3. There are lesions, no glow – it will take scraping from the sites of lesions and sowing.
4. There are lesions, there is a glow – he will take a scraping from those areas where there is a glow and suggest sowing.
5. The result of the scraping is positive – he will prescribe treatment.
6. The scraping result is negative – will suggest culture and / or PCR diagnostics.

How to cure lichen in a cat?

Good news: lichen is a self-healing (!) Disease in the vast majority of cases.It is unpleasant, unaesthetic, it can take a long time, but even without treatment, almost everyone will recover.

Then why treat lichen in cats?

• To reduce the risk of disease in humans and other animals (especially in places where animals are kept)
• To speed up the time of recovery
• It is critical to treat those with weakened immune systems

How to treat lichen in a cat?

Do not self-medicate. The doctor should choose the appropriate regimen, combination and dosage of drugs (veterinary for animals, medical for humans – not the other way around!).

1. Preparations for topical use.

Special antifungal agents should be applied to the entire body of the animal, from the tips of the ears to the heels and tip of the tail. Since the spores of dermatophytes can be not only at the site of the lesion, but also on the entire coat.

The drug must not be toxic. In some cases, it is better to have your pet cut short. This will facilitate handling and speed up recovery.

Important! All animals in the house will have to be handled. If it is assumed that there is a spore carrier animal in the home, then all animals in the home should be cultured to identify the “hero of the day”.

The most common modern veterinary drugs for the treatment of lichen (dermatophytosis) are Imaverol, Lime sulfur. These drugs are safe and non-toxic. Recommendations for use will be given by your veterinarian. The minimum course is 4 treatments with an interval of 3-4 days. Unfortunately, these drugs may not be readily available in our country. But they can be purchased abroad.

“Human” antifungal shampoos (nizoral and analogs) have a very short-term effect and cannot be used in mono-mode.They will have to be combined with systemic treatment. But they are available at any pharmacy.

Other local remedies – antifungal ointments, Yam ointment, sulfuric ointment and others are ineffective, because they are applied only to the lesion sites and do not get rid of spores on the rest of the coat. Most of these drugs are toxic. The myth about their effectiveness is associated with the fact that dermatophytosis is a self-passing disease and in 2-4 months it will pass by itself in most patients.

2. Systemic treatment.

Tableted forms of antifungal drugs (terbinafine, itraconazole, fluconazole, etc.). These drugs are prescribed exclusively by a veterinarian. Since the drugs have a strict dosage by weight, a sufficient number of side effects if used incorrectly, independent experiments can have dire consequences.

3. Environmental treatment.

It will speed up treatment and help protect the rest of the residents of the house from infection, as well as prevent re-infection. Since the spores spread easily and persist for a long time (up to 1.5 years).

• Everything that is not a pity to throw away is thrown away (beds, toys, ammunition, care items, bedding, etc.). What is not thrown away – thoroughly disinfect.
• Mechanical and wet cleaning – the more often the better. Particular attention to the places where animals like to be the most.
• Vacuum and disinfect ventilation openings. Remember to pack the bags from the vacuum cleaner into bags and dispose of as soon as possible.
• Furniture, houses, couches, carpets can be treated with hot steam (the temperature should be over 50 degrees), steam with chlorhexidine added to the water.
• Bed linen, blankets and other fabrics should, if possible, be washed in hot water and with added whiteness.
• Hard surfaces should be disinfected with hot commercial lime solution 1:10 or chlorhexidine solution 3-4% (take into account the nature of the surface so as not to spoil).

Treatment of lichen in cats will end only after 1-3 negative cultures on a special nutrient medium, taken at intervals of 3-4 weeks.

A frequently asked question by owners – Is the shingles vaccine effective for treatment and / or prevention?

No. There are currently no effective vaccines for shingles. The lichen vaccines are not only not proven effective, but also proven to be ineffective. What is often passed off as the result of treatment, in most cases, means that the animal simply recovered on its own, since lichen is a self-limiting disease. In addition, a frequent complication of vaccination against lichen are extensive purulent abscesses at the injection site, and there are also cases when vaccination against lichen provoked generalization of the process and carriage.

What to do if lichen is diagnosed in cats and dogs that live in a shelter or nursery?

When treating animals in shelters or nurseries, it is advisable to divide patients into groups:

• patients with symptoms
• asymptomatic carriers (determined by culture)
• healthy, asymptomatic and non-carrier.

Culture-negative animals should be isolated from affected animals and carriers whenever possible.

Topical treatments should be performed on all animals kept in the shelter / nursery.

Therapy is carried out up to 3-4 negative cultures taken at intervals of 3-4 weeks. In this case, crops are taken not only from animals, but also from floors, furniture, etc.

Do you suspect lichen in a cat or a cat? Do you or your child have lichen, and have a cat or cat at home? Picked up a kitten on the street?

CALL, take care of your pet’s health!

VETKLINIKA PES AND CAT

m.Kharkiv (M. 23 August)

st. Novoprudnaya, 9B

OPERATING MODE:

24/7

Call center:

90,000 Ringworm in dogs: symptoms, diagnosis, treatment

Ringworm (dermatomycosis) – an infectious disease of the skin and its derivatives, caused by pathogenic fungi – dermatophytes.

Ringworm can be infected by a person who has contact with a sick dog (trichophytosis in humans, human microsporia).

The causative agents of ringworm in dogs are imperfect fungi of the genera Trichophiton, Microsporum, Ashorion from the Dermatophites group. On the hair and skin of a dog, dermatophytes parasitize in the form of a septate mycelium, which breaks down into spores of various shapes. In the affected hair, scales and crusts, ringworm pathogens persist for up to 6-10 years.In the soil, on the surface of the floors and walls of the kennel – 2-3 months.

Ringworm affects all dog breeds, with younger dogs being more susceptible to ringworm.

Fungi of the genus Microsporum in the pathological material have a branched, septic mycelium, which disintegrates, forms round, unicellular spores. A cover or clutch is formed around the affected hair, consisting of fungal spores. The spores are arranged randomly in the form of a dense mosaic.

Trichophytons on nutrient media (wort – agar, Sabouraud’s medium, etc.) grow slowly, forming colonies (smooth, leathery, folded, etc.) with branching into the substrate for 10-20 days under aerobic conditions.

Fungi of the genus Ashorion in the pathological material have a mycelium consisting of branching hyphae with dense plexus in the form of felt. The mycelium is thin, septate. The shape of the spores is round or multifaceted. Disputes are arranged in chains or groups.

The causative agent of the favus dome-shapedly rises above the level of the nutrient medium Sabouraud in the form of a yellow-white colony, which then becomes wrinkled, waxy.

Dermatophytes are very resistant to external factors – they remain in the affected hair for up to 2-5 years, in the soil – up to 2 months. The vegetative forms of the pathogen are killed by the action of a 1-3% formaldehyde solution in 15 minutes, a 5-8% alkali solution in 20-30 minutes.

Epizootological data. Ringworm affects all types of domestic animals, regardless of age, however, young animals are more susceptible in the autumn-winter period. Trichophytosis also affects rodents, which often have contact with stray dogs.In dogs, trichophytosis is accompanied by the formation of limited foci (naked or with remnants of hair) on the skin in the head, neck, trunk, base of the tail and limbs, inflammation of the skin and follicles.

The microsporic form of ringworm in dogs is accompanied by inflammation of the skin and its derivatives. Young dogs, especially stray dogs, are susceptible to microsporia. Affected dogs infect the environment with loose scales, crusts, and affected hair. Infection of healthy dogs occurs during a walk as a result of direct contact with animals sick with microsporia (cats, dogs, rodents, etc.)etc.). A healthy dog ​​can become infected through infected care items, bedding, clothing and shoes of people who have been in contact with sick animals.

Favus (scab) in a dog is accompanied by damage to the skin, hair, claws. Infection of a dog occurs from patients with ringworm of dogs, through direct contact through damaged skin. The transmission of the disease is a variety of items for the care of sick animals, as well as contaminated feed.

Pathogenesis. Once on the dog’s skin, spores or mycelium of the fungus grow and multiply in tissues containing the horny substance-kerotin, grow into hair follicles and multiply in them, the reproduction of spores and mycelium also occurs in the epidermis under the layer of keratinized cells.During their growth and reproduction, fungi release toxins and proteolytic enzymes, which lead to the development of a superficial inflammatory reaction on the skin and loosening of the stratum corneum. In the presence of conditions favorable for development, the pathogen penetrates to the mouth of the hair follicles and into the hair neck, destroys the cuticle, the internal hair sheath, the cortex, which ultimately leads to disruption of hair nutrition and its subsequent loss. The dermis of the skin thickens, the mouths of the follicles expand, pus accumulates in the follicles.Hair breaks when leaving the follicle, numerous scales and crusts form on the surface of the skin. At the site of the skin lesion, the dog develops hyperkeratosis. The severity of the inflammatory reaction in a dog depends on the type of pathogen, skin condition and body resistance.

Inflamed areas of the skin itch, dogs itch, resulting in the spread of the pathogen of ringworm to other parts of the body. With ringworm, the pathogen can be transferred through the blood and lymphatic vessels, followed by the formation of multiple lesions in the breeding sites.As a result of this, metabolic disorders in the dog’s body occur and, ultimately, exhaustion of the sick animal may occur. During the period of pronounced clinical signs of ringworm, the dog develops an allergy and specific serum antibodies appear in the blood.

Clinical picture. Ringworm symptoms do not appear immediately in a dog. The incubation (latent) period with ringworm, depending on the resistance of the dog’s body, can last up to 30 days or more.The disease itself in a dog lasts from 3-9 weeks to 9 months or more.

According to the degree of lesions, superficial, deep, erased and hidden forms of ringworm are distinguished. In adult dogs, ringworm most often occurs in a latent form, in young dogs all forms of the disease are observed. The disease in dogs is accompanied by itching.

The superficial form of ringworm is characterized by hair loss and breakage, the formation of hairless, flaky, rounded spots on the skin.Signs of exudation (the presence of an inflammatory focus on the skin) with this form are hardly noticeable. Lesions can be focal and disseminated.

With a deep (follicular) form, the inflammatory process in the skin is pronounced, crusts of dried exudate form on the surface of the dog’s skin. Small spots may coalesce to form large, crusted foci. The deep form of ringworm in dogs is rare and only in advanced cases.

The atypical form is characterized by the appearance of hairless or sparsely hairy areas of the coat.There is no pronounced skin inflammation. On visual inspection, such areas resemble scratches and injuries to dog owners.

The latent form (subclinical) is accompanied in dogs by the defeat of individual hairs on the head, neck, trunk and limbs. Hair loss, the formation of scales, crusts with this form of ringworm is not observed. By visual examination, the affected hair in a dog is not possible to identify, they can only be detected using the luminescent method in a veterinary clinic.

With trichophytosis in dogs, on the scalp, neck, trunk, base of the tail and limbs, there appear limited foci with broken hair and a flaky surface, or we observe inflamed areas of the skin and its follicles.

Scab (favus) in dogs usually occurs sporadically. During clinical examination, veterinarians in such dogs find lesions of the base of the claws, scalp, less often hairless areas of the abdomen, thighs, and chest. The resulting spots are covered with gray-white crusts, which gradually take the shape of a saucer.The crusts in a sick dog can stick together into continuous layers, from which a characteristic putrid smell emanates.

The diagnosis of ringworm is made by specialists of the veterinary clinic in a comprehensive manner, taking into account epizootological data, clinical signs, as well as taking into account the cultural microscopic and luminescent methods for determining the pathogen. For laboratory research, scrapings (scales, hair, crusts) are taken from the periphery of the affected areas of the sick dog’s body that have not undergone medical procedures.This pathological material for research can be sent in test tubes, Petri dishes, vials with a ground stopper, in a plastic bag to a veterinary laboratory or a diagnostic room.

For diagnostic research (microcopying), the pathological material is placed in a Petri dish, poured with 10% sodium hydroxide solution and placed in a thermostat for 20-30 minutes or slightly warmed up over a burner flame. Then, with a dissecting needle, it is transferred onto a glass slide, enclosed in a 50% aqueous solution of glycerin, covered with a cover glass and viewed under a microscope at low and medium magnification.With ringworm, straight mycelium hyphae with septa lying along the periphery of the hair are visible. Spores 3-6 microns in size are unicellular, round and oval arranged in clutches or chains. Hair affected by microspore fungi are covered with spores (mycelium is straight, septate, branched).

The luminescent method is used to examine pathological material and dogs suspicious for the disease. The pathological material is examined in Petri dishes in a dark room under a portable mercury-quartz lamp PRK-2, PRK-4 (USFFS light filter), and a sick animal using a MiG, Wood lamp.Hair affected by microsporum fungi glows emerald green under the influence of ultraviolet rays.

Differential diagnosis. Dog ringworm veterinary specialists on the basis of laboratory and clinical and epizootic data differentiate from dermatitis (dermatitis in dogs), hypovitaminosis (hypovitaminosis A in dogs, hypovitaminosis C in dogs, hypovitaminosis B2 in dogs), scabies (sarcoptic mange in dogs, treatment and prevention demodicosis in dogs), ectoparasites (fleas in dogs), zinc deficiency (zinc deficiency in animals), staphylococcal infection in dogs, streptococcosis (streptococcosis in dogs and cats).

Treatment. There are currently several highly effective treatments for ringworm. Treatment of a dog with ringworm should be carried out under the direct supervision of a veterinarian and a veterinarian – dermatologist. When treating, dog owners must strictly adhere to personal preventive measures. Before applying the medicinal product to the affected skin areas, they are washed with warm water and soap.

Of the early methods of treating ringworm, the following are known – the use of 5-10% salicylic ointment, 10% salicylic alcohol, 10% tincture of iodine, sulfone, sulfurous anhydride, 3-10% solution of carbolic and benzoic acids, iodoform , monochloride iodine, “Yam” ointment, etc.The above drugs have a strong irritant and cauterizing effect on the skin. They were used for quite a long time, although this did not always lead to the recovery of the animal.

Antibiotics – nystatin and griseofulvin are widely used for the treatment of ringworm. Griseofulvin is given to the dog by mouth during feeding, 1 tablet 4 times a day for two weeks. Nystatin is also given orally at 500,000 units. 3-4 times a day, the course of treatment is two weeks. When using these drugs, the owners of a sick dog should keep in mind that they have strong side effects, and they must be used with great care.

Of the imported drugs, the oral antifungal drug nizoral (Hungary) is very effective. This drug is administered orally once a day for 1-2 tablets, the course of treatment is 2-8 weeks.

With ringworm, the use of the following ointments is also effective – undecin, zincundan, mycoseptin, mycozolone, clotrimazole. They must be used according to the instructions.

Effective for ringworm is the use of Wilkinson’s ointment, which is rubbed into the lesions 2 times a day, the course of treatment is 7-14 days.If the need arises, then after 5 days the course of treatment is repeated.

In recent years, highly effective, reliable and low-toxic live and inactivated vaccines Vakderm, polivac-TM, trimvac, microderm and others have been used for the treatment and prevention of ringworm. Owners of a sick dog should remember that the treatment and prevention of ringworm is developed, carried out and monitored by a veterinarian at the clinic.

Prevention. General prevention of ringworm in dogs is based on the observance of animal health rules in the premises by the owners of the animal, creating normal conditions of keeping, providing the dog with full-fledged food and carrying out regular disinfection.Dog owners need to remember that a balanced diet, including vitamins and macro-microelements, helps to increase immunity and can increase the body’s overall resistance to various diseases (the basics of feeding dogs, feeding puppies, feeding pregnant females, feeding lactating females, feeding aging dogs, golden rules of rational feeding of dogs).

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