Cutaneous Fungal Infections Caused by Dermatophytes and Non-Dermatophytes: An Updated Comprehensive Review of Epidemiology, Clinical Presentations, and Diagnostic Testing
Issued Date
2023-06-01
Resource Type
eISSN
2309608X
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-85163707514
Journal Title
Journal of Fungi
Volume
9
Issue
6
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Journal of Fungi Vol.9 No.6 (2023)
Suggested Citation
Chanyachailert P., Leeyaphan C., Bunyaratavej S. Cutaneous Fungal Infections Caused by Dermatophytes and Non-Dermatophytes: An Updated Comprehensive Review of Epidemiology, Clinical Presentations, and Diagnostic Testing. Journal of Fungi Vol.9 No.6 (2023). doi:10.3390/jof9060669 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/20.500.14594/87843
Title
Cutaneous Fungal Infections Caused by Dermatophytes and Non-Dermatophytes: An Updated Comprehensive Review of Epidemiology, Clinical Presentations, and Diagnostic Testing
Author(s)
Author's Affiliation
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
Cutaneous fungal infection of the skin and nails poses a significant global public health challenge. Dermatophyte infection, mainly caused by Trichophyton spp., is the primary pathogenic agent responsible for skin, hair, and nail infections worldwide. The epidemiology of these infections varies depending on the geographic location and specific population. However, epidemiological pattern changes have occurred over the past decade. The widespread availability of antimicrobials has led to an increased risk of promoting resistant strains through inappropriate treatment. The escalating prevalence of resistant Trichophyton spp. infections in the past decade has raised serious healthcare concerns on a global scale. Non-dermatophyte infections, on the other hand, present even greater challenges in terms of treatment due to the high failure rate of antifungal therapy. These organisms primarily target the nails, feet, and hands. The diagnosis of cutaneous fungal infections relies on clinical presentation, laboratory investigations, and other ancillary tools available in an outpatient care setting. This review aims to present an updated and comprehensive analysis of the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic testing methods for cutaneous fungal infections caused by dermatophytes and non-dermatophytes. An accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and minimizing the risk of antifungal resistance.