Overview
Dermatophytes are a group of fungi associated with infections of the skin, hair, and nails causing tinea (or dermatophytosis or ‘ringworm’). Risk factors for transmission are direct contact, communal baths/showers, moisture, and activities causing skin abrasions (e.g. sports). Immunocompromised states can increase the risk of severe infection.
Overall, they tend to form an annular, scaly rash with raised margins and a less inflamed centre.
Associations
- Tinea capitis – due to Trichophyton tonsurans, an infection of the scalp causing scaling and hair loss with clear edges, mainly seen in children
- Tine corporis – due to Trichophyton rubrum and causes scaling lesions on the trunk, arms, and legs
- Tine pedis – also known as Athlete’s foot, causing scaling, pruritus, and maceration of the skin between the toes
- Tinea unguium (onychomycosis) – infection of the nail (most commonly the toenails), often including adjacent skin, causes thick, discoloured (often yellow/brown) nails
- Tinea cruris – lesions in the groin and uncommonly, the scrotum
