dermatophytosis – Page 8

qPCR-Based Molecular Detection of Trichophyton indotineae by Targeting Divergent Sequences

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Trichophyton indotineae is a dangerous fungal infection that causes ringworm and is increasingly resistant to common antifungal treatments. Scientists developed a rapid blood test-like diagnostic tool called qPCR that can accurately identify this specific fungus in less than 2 hours for just a few dollars. The test was created by comparing the genetic codes of different fungal species to find unique fingerprints that distinguish T. indotineae from similar-looking fungi.

Antifungal stewardship in the UK: where are we now?

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This paper examines how well the UK is currently managing antifungal stewardship—the appropriate use of antifungal medications to treat serious fungal infections while preventing resistance. Experts found that since 2017, progress has been limited due to lack of funding and staff expertise, difficulties accessing timely fungal diagnostic tests, and disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic. The panel recommends creating regional mycology networks and diagnostic centres, establishing national standards for antifungal practices, and improving education about fungal infections to better prepare the UK for rising fungal disease threats.

Addressing filamentous fungi-related onychomycosis in the era of antifungal resistance: assessment of Zataria multiflora nanostructured lipid carrier topical gel in a double-blinded clinical trial

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Nail fungal infections (onychomycosis) are difficult to treat, especially as fungi become resistant to standard antifungal medications. Researchers tested a new gel made from Zataria multiflora (Shirazi thyme) packaged in special nanoparticles that help the medicine penetrate the nail better. In a clinical trial comparing this gel to placebo, the Zataria multiflora treatment showed better results after just 2 weeks, with 70% of patients experiencing fungal cure compared to 55% with placebo.

Increasing postgraduate medical mycology research dissertations at Uganda’s higher institution of learning

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A study from Makerere University in Uganda found that funding has significantly boosted research on fungal diseases among graduate students. The number of students focusing on medical mycology jumped from 16% to 40% between 2023 and 2024, with more advanced laboratory techniques being used. The research focused on serious fungal infections like cryptococcal meningitis, which particularly affects people with HIV/AIDS. The university’s creation of a collaborative research group helped students work together and complete their projects on time.

Computational analysis of missense mutations in squalene epoxidase associated with terbinafine resistance in clinically reported dermatophytes

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Certain fungal skin infections are becoming resistant to terbinafine, a common antifungal medication, due to genetic mutations in an enzyme called squalene epoxidase. Using computer models and analysis tools, researchers identified which mutations most strongly reduce the drug’s effectiveness and where the protein changes occur. Four specific mutations were found to prevent terbinafine from binding to its target, offering insights that could help develop better antifungal treatments.

Dermatophyte Treatment Failure: A Rapid Global Response to an Emerging Global Health Issue

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Fungal skin infections affect nearly a billion people worldwide and are becoming increasingly difficult to treat due to growing resistance to common antifungal medications. A new species of fungus called T. indotineae, particularly resistant to the popular antifungal drug terbinafine, is spreading globally from India. To combat this emerging health crisis, doctors and health organizations are working together to create global registries and surveillance programs to track resistant infections and develop better treatment strategies.

Etiological Agents and Predisposing Factors of Superficial Fungal Infections in Northeastern Argentina

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Researchers studied fungal skin infections in a community in northeastern Argentina, finding that 37% of patients had these infections. The most common cause was a fungus called Trichophyton tonsurans. Poor living conditions like overcrowding and lack of clean water increased infection risk. The study shows that fungal skin infections are a significant health problem in areas with limited access to basic sanitation and water services.

Safety and Efficacy of a 48-Month Efinaconazole 10% Solution Treatment/Maintenance Regimen: 24-Month Daily Use Followed by 24-Month Intermittent Use

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Researchers studied a 4-year treatment plan for toenail fungal infections using efinaconazole, an antifungal solution applied daily for 2 years, then 2-3 times weekly for another 2 years. The treatment was safe and effective, with all patients who achieved a cure maintaining it through the maintenance phase, and even some non-cured patients improving further. The study included many elderly patients, showing the treatment is safe across all age groups and could help prevent infection relapse.

Comparative gene expression analysis in closely related dermatophytes reveals secondary metabolism as a candidate driver of virulence

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A strain of fungal skin pathogen (Trichophyton benhamiae var. luteum) is spreading rapidly among guinea pigs and people in Europe, but scientists didn’t understand why it was more contagious than closely related strains. Researchers compared gene activity in four related fungal species and found that the epidemic strain produces higher levels of toxic compounds called secondary metabolites. These compounds help the fungus escape the body’s immune system and cause infection more effectively than in less dangerous relatives.

Utility of MALDI-ToF MS for Recognition and Antifungal Susceptibility of Nannizzia, an Underestimated Group of Dermatophytes

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Nannizzia species are soil-dwelling fungi that increasingly cause stubborn skin, nail, and hair infections in humans and animals. This study tested two laboratory methods for identifying these fungi and measured their sensitivity to eight antifungal drugs. The faster liquid-based method was slightly more accurate (67%) than the traditional culture method (62%), though neither method could identify six very rare species. Terbinafine emerged as the most effective antifungal treatment in laboratory tests.

Disease: dermatophytosis