How to treat skin mycosis: from causes to drugs
The term mycosis refers to an infection caused by pathogenic fungi called mycetes. But what are mycetes? They are saprophytic organisms living in the outdoor environment, but also dermatophytes of plants or animals. About a hundred fungal species is responsible for mycosis in humans. When a pathogenic fungus becomes established in the skin it causes those diseases called dermatomycosis or skin mycosis.
Generally, skin mycoses are caused by yeasts or dermatophyte mycetes (parasites that feed on keratin) and are called tinea, or tigne.
Among the most relevant yeasts are candida and
pityrosporum
, responsible for candidiasis and pityrosporosis, respectively. Unlike dermatophytes, which attack the organism from the outside, the aforementioned coexist in the saprophytic state with the human organism in 70 percent of cases, transforming into a pathogenic invasive form.
Speaking instead of dermatophytes, there are several types of skin mycoses caused by them and are classified as follows:
- tinea corporis
- tinea cruris (located in the inguinal folds)
- tinea pedis
- tinea manuum
- tinea faciei
- tinea capitis
- tinea unguium (more commonly known as onychomycosis)
Cutaneous and subcutaneous mycoses are the most common. Tinea pedis, or athlete’s foot, is one of the most common forms of mycosis of the skin. It is a consequence of the proliferation of a fungus called
trichophyton
or more generally of fungi of the genus
epidermophyton
; it usually develops between the toes.
Skin mycosis causes
We have already seen how there are multiple types of organisms that can cause these infections, although they are usually all lumped under the term “fungi.”
- molds
- yeasts
- mushrooms
Moist conditions favor the establishment and proliferation of mycetes, which is why skin folds, interdigital spaces, genitalia and areas where perspiration is difficult (especially due to unsuitable clothing) are most at risk. However, there are other concurrences that can make the environment ideal for the establishment of these microorganisms.
- Moisture on the skin that alters skin pH (especially as a result of sweating);
- Obesity;
- diabetes;
- Excessive use of detergents;
- Poor hygiene;
- Prolonged therapies with antibiotics or corticosteroids that can lower natural immune defenses;
- pregnancy (the hormonal changes of the nine months contribute to altering the pH of the skin).
Another kind of causes of dermatophyte proliferation is related to daily behaviors. So here are some prevention tips:
- Avoid contact with vehicles of contagion (linens, towels, etc.) and wash linens repeatedly to avert the risk;
- Avoid wearing clothes and footwear that are not very breathable;
- Do not walk barefoot in common environments such as beaches, swimming pools or saunas, where transmission risks are higher;
- Keep away from stray animals that might transmit tinea;
- Healthy eating regimen that ensures a strong immune system.
Skin mycosis symptoms
The symptoms found in most cases are. reddish or brown spots with small scabs or blisters Causing a burning or itching sensation.The appearance of the lesions tends to be rounded with a lighter central area. The tinee skin generally affect arms, legs, back and trunk and sometimes the face In the most exposed areas.
A highly contagious cutaneous mycosis affecting the scalp is manifested by the appearance of roundish patches with whitish scales, within which hair loss occurs.
In the case of athlete’s foot, the initial stage of infection presents with a yellowish complexion, reddening, and peeling of the skin; thereafter, the skin takes on a whitish tint with possible formation of blisters, eruptions, and abrasions. Other common symptoms are itching between the toes, burning and subsequent difficulty in putting on shoes. A later stage of infection can be “boiled nails,” so-called because they take on a grayish, dull, thickened, irregular appearance.
A particular form of mycosis of the skin is pityriasis versicolor, formerly called “sea fungus” because the patches that characterize it become more prominent with tanning. This type of mycosis does not give itching, pain or discomfort, but is recognized precisely by the presence of scaly patches of various colors: light on dark skin (hypopigmented pityriasis versicolor) and dark on light skin (desquamative pityriasis versicolor). These macules appear mainly in areas where there is increased sebum production (scalp, nape of the neck, armpits, pubis, groin, and genitals).
As for Candida infections affecting the genitals, they are usually accompanied by intense itching, discharge, and swelling.
How to treat mycosis of the skin
Any appearance of reddish spots with small blisters or scaling should immediately prompt us to consult a doctor.In the case of mycosis of the skin, it is always a good idea to consult a dermatologist to proceed with targeted antifungal treatment.
A sample is taken from the infected area and analyzed to trace fungal spores and ascertain the diagnosis; another part of the sample is put into culture medium to understand exactly what type it is.
Solutions for skin mycoses usually consist of topical therapies. There are mousses, lotions, glazes, cleansers, shampoos, and of course creams for skin mycoses.
As for oral antifungals, they are mainly used for resistant tigne and in patients who cannot sustain prolonged topical regimens.
Among the main skin fungal medicines used are:
- clotrimazole to treat skin mycoses such as cutaneous candidiasis, pityriasis versicolor, and skin fungi;
- ketoconazole for the treatment of skin candidiasis and ringworm of different origins;
- Terbinafine for the therapy of skin mycoses caused by dermatophytes and yeasts.
It is, of course, up to the dermatologist to choose the type and dosage of treatment, depending on the patient.
Mycosis of the skin? Contact us
If you have noticed strange reddish spots on your body or recognize some of the symptoms described above, please do not hesitate to contact us. Call 06 45471658 or visit us at Via Cola Di Rienzo 212, Rome in our Prati Dermatology office.
