What are the common types of fungal skin infections. How can you identify the symptoms of fungal skin infections. What causes fungal infections to develop on the skin. Which treatments are most effective for fungal skin infections.

Understanding Fungal Skin Infections: An Overview

Fungal skin infections, also known as mycoses, are skin diseases caused by various species of fungi. These microscopic organisms thrive in warm, moist environments and can lead to a range of skin problems, from mild irritation to more severe conditions. While fungi are a natural part of our environment, found in soil, plants, and even on our skin, certain circumstances can cause them to multiply and cause infections.

Fungal infections can occur on any part of the body, but they are particularly common in areas where moisture tends to accumulate, such as between the toes, in the groin area, and under the breasts. These infections are generally not serious but can be uncomfortable and persistent if left untreated.

Common Symptoms of Fungal Skin Infections

Identifying a fungal skin infection early can help in seeking prompt treatment. Here are some typical symptoms to watch out for:

• Irritation and itching
• Redness of the affected area
• Scaly or flaky skin
• Rashes or bumps
• Swelling
• Blisters

The severity and combination of these symptoms can vary depending on the type of fungal infection and the area of the body affected.

Types of Fungal Skin Infections: From Athlete’s Foot to Ringworm

While there are numerous types of fungal skin infections, some are more common than others. Understanding these different types can help in identifying and treating them effectively.

Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)

Athlete’s foot is one of the most prevalent fungal skin infections. It primarily affects the feet, particularly the areas between the toes and the soles. The fungi responsible for athlete’s foot thrive in warm, damp environments, making public showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms common areas for transmission.

Are you curious about the different forms of athlete’s foot? There are three main types:

1. Interdigital: The most common form, occurring between the toes.
2. Moccasin: Affects the sole and sides of the foot, often causing thickened, scaly skin.
3. Vesicular: The rarest type, characterized by fluid-filled blisters.

Symptoms of athlete’s foot can include itching, burning, peeling skin, and in some cases, blisters. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the foot or even to other areas of the body.

Jock Itch (Tinea Cruris)

Jock itch is a fungal infection that affects the groin area, inner thighs, and buttocks. It’s more common in men and typically presents as a red, itchy rash with a ring-like shape. The warm, moist environment in these areas provides an ideal breeding ground for the fungi.

While jock itch is mildly contagious, it can spread through direct contact or indirectly through contaminated objects. Symptoms often include intense itching, burning sensation, and flaking or cracking of the skin.

Ringworm (Tinea Corporis)

Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm but by a fungus. It can affect various parts of the body and is characterized by a circular, red rash with a raised, worm-like border. Ringworm is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with infected individuals or animals, or by touching contaminated surfaces.

The rash associated with ringworm may be scaly, itchy, and can sometimes blister. In some cases, multiple rings may overlap, creating a more complex pattern on the skin.

Causes and Risk Factors for Fungal Skin Infections

Understanding the causes and risk factors associated with fungal skin infections can help in prevention and early intervention. While fungi are ubiquitous in our environment, certain conditions make it easier for them to proliferate and cause infections.

Environmental Factors

Environmental conditions play a significant role in the development of fungal skin infections. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, which is why infections are more common in tropical or humid climates. Some environmental risk factors include:

• Public swimming pools and showers
• Locker rooms and gyms
• Tight, non-breathable footwear
• Damp or sweaty clothing

Personal Factors

Certain personal factors can increase an individual’s susceptibility to fungal skin infections:

• Poor hygiene practices
• Weakened immune system
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Prolonged use of antibiotics or corticosteroids

Do these factors guarantee you’ll develop a fungal infection? Not necessarily, but they do increase your risk. Maintaining good personal hygiene and managing underlying health conditions can significantly reduce your chances of developing these infections.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Fungal Skin Infections

Proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing fungal skin infections effectively. While some mild cases may resolve on their own or with over-the-counter treatments, more severe or persistent infections may require professional medical intervention.

Diagnosis Process

Healthcare providers typically diagnose fungal skin infections through a combination of visual examination and, in some cases, laboratory tests. The diagnosis process may include:

1. Physical examination of the affected area
2. Review of medical history and symptoms
3. Skin scraping or culture for microscopic examination
4. Wood’s lamp examination (in some cases)

Is a skin scraping always necessary for diagnosis? Not always. In many cases, experienced healthcare providers can diagnose common fungal infections based on their appearance and location. However, if there’s any doubt or if the infection is not responding to treatment, further testing may be required.

Treatment Approaches

The treatment for fungal skin infections typically involves antifungal medications. These can be topical (applied directly to the skin) or oral (taken by mouth), depending on the severity and type of infection.

Common treatment options include:

• Over-the-counter antifungal creams, powders, or sprays
• Prescription-strength topical antifungals
• Oral antifungal medications for severe or resistant infections
• Combination therapies in some cases

In addition to medication, your healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes or hygiene practices to support treatment and prevent recurrence.

Prevention Strategies: Keeping Fungal Skin Infections at Bay

While fungal skin infections are common, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing these conditions. Prevention is often easier and more cost-effective than treatment, so incorporating these strategies into your daily routine can be beneficial.

Personal Hygiene Practices

Maintaining good personal hygiene is crucial in preventing fungal skin infections. Here are some key practices to consider:

• Keep your skin clean and dry, especially in areas prone to sweating
• Change out of damp or sweaty clothes promptly
• Use antifungal powders in areas prone to moisture accumulation
• Wear breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics
• Avoid sharing personal items like towels, shoes, or combs

Environmental Precautions

Taking precautions in public spaces can also help reduce your risk of fungal infections:

• Wear flip-flops or shower shoes in public showers, locker rooms, and around swimming pools
• Keep your feet dry by wearing breathable shoes and changing socks regularly
• Avoid walking barefoot in public areas
• Clean and disinfect shared exercise equipment before use

How effective are these prevention strategies? While they can significantly reduce your risk, it’s important to remember that no prevention method is 100% foolproof. Consistent application of these strategies, combined with good overall health practices, provides the best protection against fungal skin infections.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Fungal Skin Infections

While many fungal skin infections can be treated effectively with over-the-counter remedies, there are instances where professional medical attention is necessary. Recognizing when to consult a healthcare provider is crucial for preventing complications and ensuring proper treatment.

Signs That Warrant Medical Attention

Consider seeking medical help if you experience any of the following:

• Persistent infection that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter treatments
• Spreading of the infection to other areas of the body
• Severe pain, swelling, or redness in the affected area
• Signs of a secondary bacterial infection, such as increased warmth, tenderness, or pus
• Recurrent infections
• Fungal infections in individuals with weakened immune systems or diabetes

Should you wait for multiple symptoms before seeking medical attention? It’s generally better to err on the side of caution. If you’re unsure about the severity of your condition or if you have any concerns, consulting with a healthcare provider is advisable.

What to Expect During a Medical Consultation

When you visit a healthcare provider for a suspected fungal skin infection, you can expect the following:

1. A thorough examination of the affected area
2. Questions about your symptoms, their duration, and any treatments you’ve tried
3. Possible skin scraping or culture for laboratory analysis
4. Discussion of treatment options, which may include prescription-strength medications
5. Advice on preventing future infections

Remember, early intervention can lead to quicker resolution of the infection and reduce the risk of complications or spread to other areas of the body.

Living with Fungal Skin Infections: Management and Lifestyle Adjustments

While fungal skin infections are generally treatable, they can be persistent and may recur. Learning to manage these conditions effectively and making necessary lifestyle adjustments can greatly improve your quality of life and reduce the likelihood of future infections.

Long-Term Management Strategies

For individuals prone to recurrent fungal infections, long-term management strategies are crucial. These may include:

• Maintaining a consistent antifungal regimen as prescribed by your healthcare provider
• Regular use of preventive measures, such as antifungal powders or sprays
• Identifying and avoiding personal triggers that may lead to infections
• Regular check-ups with a dermatologist or primary care physician

Lifestyle Modifications

Certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk of fungal skin infections:

• Adopting a skin-friendly diet rich in probiotics and low in sugars
• Managing stress levels through relaxation techniques or exercise
• Ensuring adequate sleep to support immune function
• Choosing appropriate clothing and footwear that allows your skin to breathe
• Maintaining overall health through regular exercise and a balanced diet

How can these lifestyle changes impact your susceptibility to fungal infections? By improving your overall health and creating an environment less favorable for fungal growth, these modifications can significantly reduce your risk of developing infections and help manage existing ones more effectively.

Remember, living with a tendency towards fungal skin infections doesn’t mean you can’t lead a normal, active life. With proper management and lifestyle adjustments, you can minimize the impact of these conditions on your daily activities and overall well-being.

Symptoms, Types, Causes, and Treatments

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• What Is a Fungal Infection?
• Fungal Infection Symptoms
• Types of Fungal Infections
• Athlete’s Foot
• Jock Itch
• Ringworm
• Yeast Infections
• More

A fungal infection, also called mycosis, is a skin disease caused by a fungus.

There are millions of species of fungi. They live in the dirt, on plants, on household surfaces, and on your skin. Sometimes, they can lead to skin problems like rashes or bumps.

A fungal skin infection might cause:

• Irritation
• Scaly skin
• Redness
• Itching
• Swelling
• Blisters

Fungal skin infections can happen anywhere on your body. Some of the most common are athlete’s foot, jock itch, ringworm, and yeast infections.

Athlete’s foot, also called tinea pedis, is a fungal infection of your foot.

The fungi grow best in warm, moist places such as shoes, socks, swimming pools, locker rooms, and public showers. They’re often found in the summer and in hot, humid climates. It happens more often in people who wear tight shoes, who don’t change their sweaty socks, and who use public baths and pools.

Athlete’s foot causes

The fungi behind athlete’s foot live on the dead tissue of your hair, toenails, and outer skin layers. At least four kinds of fungus can cause the infection. The most common is Trichophyton rubrum.

Athlete’s foot symptoms

Signs of athlete’s foot vary from person to person. You might have:

• Peeling, cracking, and scaly feet
• Blisters
• Skin that’s red, softened, or broken down
• Itching
• Burning

Types of athlete’s foot

• Interdigital. This is also called toe web infection. Most people with athlete’s foot have this form. It usually occurs between your two smallest toes. The infection can spread to the sole of your foot.
• Moccasin.  This form can begin with irritation, dryness, itching, or scaly skin. Over time, your skin may thicken and crack. This infection can involve your entire sole and extend onto the sides of your foot.
• Vesicular. This is the rarest kind of athlete’s foot. It usually begins with a sudden outbreak of fluid-filled blisters, often on the underside of your foot. They also can appear between your toes, on your heel, or on top of your foot.

Athlete’s foot diagnosis

Not all itchy, scaly feet are caused by a fungus. Your doctor may scrape off a bit of skin and look at it under a microscope to check for a different condition.

Athlete’s foot treatment

Your doctor might give you antifungal medicine to put on your skin or, in severe cases, another kind to take by mouth. Be sure to keep your feet clean and dry.

Athlete’s foot prevention

To keep from getting athlete’s foot, wear shower sandals in public showering areas, wear shoes that let your feet breathe, and wash your feet every day with soap and water. Dry them thoroughly, and use a quality foot powder.

A type of fungus called tinea causes jock itch. The infection is also known as tinea cruris. Tinea loves warm, moist areas like your genitals, inner thighs, and buttocks. Infections happen more often in the summer or in warm, wet climates.

Jock itch is a red, itchy rash that’s often ring-shaped.

Is jock itch contagious?

It’s only mildly contagious. It can spread from person to person through direct contact or indirectly through objects with the fungus on them.

Jock itch symptoms

Symptoms of jock itch include:

• Itching, chafing, or burning on your groin or thigh
• A red, circular, rash with raised edges
• Redness on your groin or thigh
• Flaking, peeling, or cracking skin

Jock itch diagnosis

Doctors can usually diagnose it by what it looks like and where it is on your body. They might look at a sample of skin under a microscope to be sure.

Jock itch treatment

Keep the affected area clean and dry. Over-the-counter antifungal medicines can treat most cases of jock itch. In severe cases, your doctor might need to give you a prescription cream. No matter your treatment, be sure to:

• Wash and dry the area with a clean towel
• Use the antifungal medicine as directed
• Change clothes — especially your underwear — every day

Ringworm, also called tinea corporis, isn’t a worm but a fungal skin infection.  It’s named for its ring-shaped rash with a winding, worm-like edge.

Is ringworm contagious?

Ringworm can spread through direct contact with infected people or animals. You can also pick it up off clothing or furniture. Heat and humidity can help spread the infection.

Ringworm symptoms

Ringworm is a red, circular, flat sore that can happen along with scaly skin. The outer part of the sore might be raised while the skin in the middle appears normal. Patches or red rings may overlap.

Ringworm diagnosis

Your doctor can diagnose ringworm based on your symptoms. They might ask whether you’ve come into contact with infected people or animals. They might also take samples from the area and look at them under a microscope to be sure.

Ringworm treatment

Treatment usually involves antifungal medications that you put on your skin. You might use an over-the-counter cream such as:

• Clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex)
• Miconazole (Micatin, Monistat-Derm)
• Terbinafine (Lamisil)

In more severe cases, you might need prescription medications to put on your skin or take by mouth.

Yeast infections of your skin are called cutaneous candidiasis. A type of fungus called candida causes these infections when it grows too much. Yeast infections aren’t contagious.

The infections are most common in warm, moist, creased areas of your body, including your armpits and groin. They often happen in people who are obese or who have diabetes. People taking antibiotics are also at higher risk.

Candida can cause diaper rash in infants. It can also cause infections in your nails, vagina, or mouth (oral thrush).

Yeast infection symptoms

Signs of a yeast infection on your skin include:

• Rash
• Patches that ooze clear fluid
• Pimple-like bumps
• Itching
• Burning

Signs of a yeast infection in your nail beds include:

• Swelling
• Pain
• Pus
• A white or yellow nail that separates from the nail bed

Signs of thrush (yeast infection of your mouth) include:

• White patches on your tongue and inside your cheeks
• Pain

Signs of a vaginal yeast infection include:

• White or yellow discharge from your vagina
• Itching
• Redness in the external area of your vagina
• Burning

Yeast infection diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your medical history and do a physical exam. They might also take a sample from the affected area to look at under a microscope.

Yeast infection treatment

Treatment depends on the infection. Medicated creams can treat most skin yeast infections. For a vaginal infection, you can usually use medicated suppositories. A medicated mouthwash or lozenges that dissolve in your mouth may treat oral thrush. If you have a severe infection or a weakened immune system, you might need anti-yeast medications that you take by mouth.

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Ringworm: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• What Is Ringworm?
• What Are the Symptoms Of Ringworm?
• How Do You Get Ringworm?
• How Do I Know If I Have Ringworm?
• What’s the Treatment For Ringworm?
• How Can I Prevent Ringworm?
• More

Ringworm isn’t a worm. It’s a skin infection that’s caused by moldlike fungi that live on the dead tissues of your skin, hair, and nails. You can get it in any of these places — and on your scalp.

When you get it between your toes, it’s what people call athlete’s foot. If it spreads to your groin, it’s known as jock itch.

The telltale sign is a red, scaly patch on light skin or brown or gray patches on skin of color. You may also get bumps that itch. Over time, the bump turns into a ring- or circle-shaped patch. It may turn into several rings. The inside of the patch is usually clear or scaly. The outside might be slightly raised and bumpy.

Ringworm on your scalp tends to start out as a bump or small sore. It may turn flaky and scaly, and your scalp may feel tender and sore to the touch. You may notice that your hair starts to fall out in patches.

Ringworm is highly contagious. You can catch it in any of the following ways:

• From another person. Ringworm often spreads by skin-to-skin contact.
• From your pets. Rubbing or grooming Sparky? Wash your hands when you’re finished. It’s also very common in cows.
• By touching objects. The fungus that causes ringworm can linger on surfaces, clothes, towels, and in combs and brushes.
• From soil. If you’re working or standing barefoot in soil that’s infected with the fungus that causes ringworm, you can get it, too.

You’ll have to see your doctor to be sure if the infection is ringworm. There are a number of other skin conditions that look like it.

Your doctor will probably scrape some skin from the itchy, scaly areas and look at them under a microscope.

How the infection is treated depends on where it is and how bad it is. In many cases, your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine you can get at the drugstore. If the ringworm is on your skin, an OTC antifungal cream, lotion, or powder may work just fine. Some of the most popular ones are clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex) and miconazole.

In most cases, you’ll have to use the medicines on your skin for 2 to 4 weeks to make sure you kill the fungus that causes ringworm. It also will lower its chance of coming back.

If you have ringworm on your scalp or in many different places on your body, OTC treatments probably won’t be enough. Your doctor will have to write you a prescription.

Keep an eye out for symptoms that get worse or don’t clear up after 2 weeks. If they don’t, call your doctor.

The fungi that cause it are everywhere. Still, here are some things you can do to lower your chances of getting ringworm or stop it from spreading:

• Keep your skin clean and dry.
• Wear flip-flops in locker rooms and public showers.
• Change your socks and underwear at least once each day.
• Don’t share clothes or towels with someone who has ringworm.
• If you play sports, keep your gear and uniform clean — and don’t share them with other players.
• Wash your hands with soap and water after playing with pets. If your pets have ringworm, see your vet.

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Fungal allergy

The most significant allergenic fungi, which is associated not only with the content of their spores in the atmosphere, but also with reactivity in skin testing – Alternaria, Cladosporium, Aspergillus, Penicillium. The incidence of sensitization to fungi in patients with bronchial asthma approaches 25%. Most mushroom-sensitive patients are sensitized to one or more of these four.

3 types of exposure to fungal allergens associated with asthma have been described.

1. The role of fungi and their spores as inhalant allergens in the development of asthma.
2. Colonization with fungi – microorganisms of the lungs, more often Aspergillus, causing the development of immediate hypersensitivity, especially in severe cases.
3. The presence of a fungal infection of the skin or nails has also been associated with the development of immediate hypersensitivity in asthma.

Alternaria alternata is one of the main causally significant allergens in children. Sensitization to Alternaria alternata angigens is associated with the development and severity of atopic dermatitis. Alt a1 is the main allergen of the fungus Alternaria alternata.

Mushroom allergens can be divided into year-round indoor and outdoor seasonal allergens. Some types of mushrooms are found both indoors and outdoors. In temperate climates, their concentration is subject to seasonal fluctuations. It rises in warm weather, while frost and snowfall inhibit the growth of fungi.

In the open air, Alternaria and Cladosporium spores predominate, actively multiplying on decaying parts of plants and in the soil. The content of spores of these fungi in the air is strictly seasonal; spores occur from early spring to late autumn and disappear with the first frost. Spores are virtually absent from the air during the winter months.

In addition, spores of fungi of the genera Aspergillus, Penicillium, Bortrytis are common in the external environment. Fungal spores in all regions of the world, with the exception of the polar regions, are found all year round. In areas where cereals are grown, spores of fungi of the genus Alternaria predominate. Fungi of the genus Epicoccum are widely distributed in cultivated or grass-covered lands. Fungi of the genus Fusarium cause food spoilage and plant diseases. Another food spoiling fungus is Aspergillus. It is widely present in rotting plant debris and compost heaps.

The fungi Aspergillus and Penicillium are sometimes called storage fungi because they cause rotting of stored grains, fruits and vegetables. Aspergillus thrives well on low moisture substrates. These two fungi are most commonly found indoors, especially in sheds, barns, basements, and hard-to-reach, poorly ventilated areas. Penicillium, a green mold, can often be seen on items stored in basements and on spoiled food. Rizopus form black mold on bread and actively grow on vegetables stored in the house, especially onions.

Fungi of the genus Aspergillus cause both allergic diseases (allergic rhinitis, allergic sinusitis, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, bronchial asthma) and invasive aspergillosis. Other mold fungi can also cause infectious processes in the lung parenchyma. Thermophilic fungi of the genus Actinomyces are the cause of allergic pneumonia.

Penicillium molds are present in the interior of so-called blue cheeses (roquefort-type cheeses) and on the surface of Camembert-type cheeses. In patients with allergies to these fungi, the use of such varieties of cheese sometimes causes manifestations of allergic reactions in the oral cavity.

The mold Candida albicans is common in soil, organic debris and in humans as a saprophyte in the nasopharynx and feces. Rarely found in the air. The role of Candida albicans in the development of allergies is controversial. This fungus can cause clinically significant infections such as thrush in children, skin infections in diabetic patients, and sepsis in immunocompromised patients. However, specific Ig E to Candida albicans can be detected in asthma and rhinitis.

Sensitization of the body to Candida can develop in two ways: exogenous and endogenous.

The exogenous pathway is the result of human contact with allergens of fungi in the environment, while mycogenic sensitization usually manifests itself as an occupational pathology in workers at enterprises for the production of fodder yeast and protein-vitamin concentrates, among residents living in the areas where such enterprises are located, as well as livestock breeders, in contact with finished products. Most often, sensitization to the allergen of the fungus occurs endogenously in chronic forms of candidiasis or long-term carriage of fungi of the genus Candida in the body. Endogenous sensitization also occurs as an occupational pathology in nurses, employees of enterprises for the production of medicinal enterprises and the production of animal feed, which is associated with frequent candidiasis in these professions. The development of mycogenic sensitization and allergies is influenced by many factors: hereditary predisposition to allergic diseases, the dose of the allergen and the duration of contact with it, the way the allergen enters the body, etc.

In patients with atopic dermatitis with high levels of Ig E to Candida, it has been shown that any localization of candida infection or candida carriage can aggravate the course of the underlying disease.

How to avoid contact with mushroom allergens?

1. Do not engage in leaf raking, lawn mowing, compost heaping, or agricultural work. Don’t go to the forest.
2. Where contact with mold is possible or the amount of fungal spores in the air is high, wear a mask or respirator.
3. Control dampness in enclosed spaces.

Fungal infections

According to official international statistics on the prevalence in the world , fungal infections have been ranked second among all skin diseases for many years in a row. They not only reduce the quality of life and cause discomfort, but also provoke allergic reactions, chronic inflammatory processes and many other pathologies.

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Due to the peculiarities of their microbiological nature, fungal diseases can be actively transmitted from the carrier to a healthy person, and in addition to the skin, affect the nail plates, hair, internal organs and cause their various pathogenic changes. Some fungi are prone to recurrence, have a fairly long incubation period and very similar external manifestations. At the same time, some types of mycoses are treated only with oral preparations, others with cutaneous forms, therefore it is absolutely impossible to self-medicate and contact specialists at the first symptoms.

When tests for fungal infections are ordered

By external signs, it is only possible to initially diagnose a fungal disease. Therefore, with redness of the skin, focal lesions of the smooth and hairline, as well as with itching in the foot or skin folds, changes in the shape and color of the nail plate, dermatologists prescribe laboratory tests. This allows you to correctly diagnose the nosological form, and, therefore, to select the most effective set of therapy, take the necessary measures to localize the infection and minimize possible side effects.

Types of fungal diseases

Microscopic pathogenic fungi in medical practice have a common name – mycosis (Greek mycosis). Today, more than 100 species of parasitic and pathogenic microfungi are classified, and we will single out the main infections that affect adults and children.

Dermatomycosis

Common fungal diseases that affect the skin, nails and hair. The source of infection can be a person or an animal. They manifest themselves with various symptoms, we will only indicate the most common diseases in our geographical area:

• rubromycosis is a disease caused by the anthropophilic fungus Trichophyton rubrum. Differs in a variety of clinical manifestations and localization of foci on any part of the body, can affect smooth skin, hair follicles and nails;
• Mycosis of the foot (epidermophytosis), which also affects the interdigital folds. Very similar to candidal lesion, and sometimes there is a polymycotic infection;
• favus – a rare form accompanied by severe baldness of the head. Can be transmitted through combs, underwear, and shaving and haircutting tools;
• Microsporia is a trichomycosis caused by the microsporum fungus. On smooth skin it appears as red spots of a clear shape with a peripheral roller, and on the scalp – with small scaly foci;
• trichophytosis (synonymous with ringworm). Outwardly, it is manifested by pink-red focal lesions of the skin on any part of the body;
• epidermophytosis of skin folds . Accompanied by itching, redness and peeling.

Keratomycosis

Mycoses predominantly of the stratum corneum. Among them, the most famous are piedra, erythrasma and bran lichen.
Superficial mycoses are often ignored by many ordinary people, because if multi-colored lichen can be primarily identified by yellowish-brown spots covered with pityriasis scales, then erythrasma is often perceived as age-related darkening of the skin. This is due to the fact that the disease progresses slowly and is localized on the inner surface of the thighs, in the inguinal folds and under the mammary glands in women. The dim darkening of the skin affected by erythrasma is covered with small scaly scales, and although the disease almost does not cause itching, it sharply reduces the protective properties of the skin and spoils the appearance of the infected.

Candidiasis

Diseases caused by yeast-like fungi of the genus Candidosis, which includes more than 150 varieties. They are considered the most dangerous and most common, as they are found throughout the world and can be transmitted from people, birds and pets. In this case, in addition to skin manifestations of candidiasis can:

• affect mucous membranes;
• penetrate deeply into tissues and organs;
• cause septic diseases and allergic changes in the body.

Candidiasis can manifest as a localized and widespread rash on the hands and feet, lesions of the nail folds and scalp, in the form of stomatitis, cheilitis and gingivitis. With internal infection, they cause vulvovaginitis, urethritis, pleuropneumonia, endocrites, meningitis and other diseases.

Visceral and systemic mycoses

Fungal lesions of internal organs caused by infection with taxonomic microfungi and accompanied by severe lesions of the skin, visceral (internal) organs, subcutaneous tissue, nervous system, and even the musculoskeletal system. This group includes more than two dozen fungi, among which there are pathogenic and conditionally pathogenic. The most common are actinomycosis, aspergillosis, histoplasmosis, coccidiodiasis, sporotrichosis, chromomycosis and others.
As a rule, deep mycoses are transmitted indirectly and are difficult to diagnose. Some pathogens demonstrate amazing survivability and resistance to drug therapy, high pathogenicity and significant contagiousness, and can lead to disability and death. Most systemic mycoses act as opportunistic infections in patients with hepatitis and AIDS.

Methods for the diagnosis of fungal infections

Microbiological methods

Microscopy is the most accessible and simple diagnostic method. The study is aimed at confirming infection with superficial mycosis, for which biological material is taken from the patient, which is potentially considered infected: scraping of a pathologically altered nail or skin, eyelash, hair. It refers to qualitative analyzes and allows only to establish or refute the fact of infection. The study takes several days: the resulting material is processed (stained) in a certain way and transferred to microscopic examination to identify elements of the fungus (spores, hyphae).
Microscopy allows you to quickly confirm mycosis, but the type of pathogen and its quantitative concentration is established only for yeast-like and mold species. Therefore, it is often supplemented by cultural research (bakposev). The results of microbiological studies must be interpreted by the attending specialist.

ELISA

Enzyme immunoassay is a modern and highly reliable method for identifying fungi in a patient’s venous blood. It is a qualitative and quantitative method and can be used as a primary diagnosis and act as a confirmatory analysis of superficial and visceral mycoses.

The method is based on the detection and identification of an immunoglobulin protein to a specific pathogen. Antibodies and antigens provide reliable information about infection with aspargillosis, candidiasis, cryptococcus and dimorphic microfungi. The result of the test is interpreted as “positive” (there is infection) or “negative” (no fungal infection). In some cases, the study may give a questionable result, as a rule, this happens if the patient has recently taken antibacterial drugs.

The study takes from 1 to 5 days. If it is required to reveal the dynamics of the disease, ELISA is carried out at intervals of 14 days.

PCR

High-precision research method based on polymerase chain reaction and taking no more than 3 days. It can be used to register any fungal pathogens, but has one drawback – directed research. This means that the laboratory must obtain information on the specific microfungal species whose spores and hyphae are to be identified.
Blood, sputum, prostate secretion or urine can be provided for analysis, but in the last three options it is necessary to ensure the maximum purity of the biological material. The most effective and expedient in the complex diagnosis of systemic and visceral forms of fungal diseases. The study gives qualitative and quantitative results that are interpreted only by the attending physician.

Serological method

Classical studies, in which IgG-prepitins, enolase antigens, proteinases and mannoproteins are more often detected. The study is variable and may be based on the agglutination reaction, titration and RSK. They allow you to get information only about the fact of carrying a mycotic infection or testify to a previously transferred fungal disease.
The analysis may be based on the study of blood serum. With extensive serodiagnosis, the detection of a microfungus can also be carried out in other physiological fluids of the patient.

The results are interpreted by the treating specialist. At the same time, the serological method is often used as a control study for subsequent correction of therapy and determining the effectiveness of treatment.

Risk groups and prevention of fungal infections

Fungal pathogens in a minimal amount are found on the skin of any person. But the uncontrolled use of medicines, especially hormones and antibiotics, can provoke their active growth and subsequent lesions. It should also be noted that deep mycotic infections can enter the body through open wounds. Compliance with the sanitary rules for the treatment of any injuries associated with a violation of the skin minimizes the risks of systemic and visceral microfungi.

High humidity and a constant positive temperature are an ideal environment for the life and reproduction of microscopic fungi. Accordingly, the risk group a priori includes employees and visitors to swimming pools, fitness clubs, bath complexes, spas, as well as employees of laundries and catering establishments.
People with a weakened immune system, a depressed nervous system, a tendency to allergies, a critical underweight and metabolic disorders are also prone to fungal infections. Therefore, the most effective prevention is to strengthen the immune system, impeccable observance of the rules of personal hygiene and systematic examinations by a therapist and a dermatologist.