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Severe tinea faciei mimicking favus-like lesions linked to rabbit exposure: A case report

Summary

A young girl developed facial rashes after getting a pet rabbit and was initially treated for eczema, but her condition worsened. Tests revealed she and her rabbit both had a fungal infection caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes. The infection was successfully treated with oral antifungal medication. This case highlights how pet contact can transmit fungal infections to children and the importance of proper diagnosis before starting treatment.

Background

Tinea faciei (TF) is a dermatophyte infection affecting the non-hairy skin of the face, accounting for approximately 3-4% of tinea corporis cases. It occurs across all age groups with higher prevalence in children aged 2-14 years. Zoophilic dermatophytes like Trichophyton mentagrophytes pose significant zoonotic risks, particularly where humans and animals coexist.

Objective

This case report describes a pediatric case of tinea faciei caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes originating from a pet rabbit that was initially misdiagnosed as eczema. The report emphasizes the importance of considering tinea faciei in children with inflammatory facial rashes and the need for mycological examination to prevent diagnostic delays.

Results

Mycological examination confirmed both the patient and rabbit were affected by tinea corporis caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Microscopy revealed septate hyphae, and culture yielded yellowish powdery colonies with characteristic microconidia and macroconidia. ITS sequencing confirmed T. mentagrophytes (GenBank accession PP587399).

Conclusion

This case highlights the importance of considering tinea faciei in children with inflammatory facial rashes, especially with pet contact history. Mycological examination is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Protective measures and hygiene protocols are crucial to prevent zoonotic dermatophyte transmission to children from domestic animals.
  • Published in:Journal of International Medical Research,
  • Study Type:Case Report,
  • Source: PMID: 40470782, DOI: 10.1177/03000605251345893
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