superficial fungal infections

Diagnostic Performance of a PCR-Based Approach for the Diagnosis of Dermatomycosis

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This study evaluated a new testing method combining DNA analysis (PCR) with traditional microscopy and culture to diagnose fungal skin, hair, and nail infections. The PCR method detects the infection quickly and accurately, identifying the specific fungus causing the problem within days rather than weeks. The study of over 4,400 samples found that Trichophyton rubrum was the most common cause of fungal infections, and the combined testing approach was 98.5% accurate while reducing unnecessary lab work.

PCR enables rapid detection of dermatophytes in practice

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This study shows that a new rapid DNA-based test (PCR) is much faster and more effective than traditional methods for diagnosing fungal skin, hair, and nail infections. While traditional culture methods took about 19 days to get results, the new PCR test gives results in just 16 hours. The PCR test detected more infections and is now the preferred diagnostic method in Northern Finland, helping doctors treat patients more quickly and avoid unnecessary antifungal medications.

Evaluation of the DendrisKIT®DP for the Diagnosis of Superficial Fungal Infections

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Researchers evaluated a new rapid test called DendrisKIT®DP that can identify skin, nail, and hair fungal infections much faster than traditional methods. The test uses PCR technology combined with artificial intelligence to detect 13 different fungal species directly from patient samples in less than 48 hours, compared to traditional cultures that take up to 4 weeks. The test showed good accuracy with 84% sensitivity and 89% specificity, and when combined with traditional methods, provides a better overall diagnostic strategy for fungal infections.

Antimicrobial effects and mechanisms of hydrogen sulphide against nail pathogens

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Researchers discovered that hydrogen sulphide (H2S), a small gas molecule, can effectively kill the fungi and bacteria that cause painful nail infections. Unlike current treatments that struggle to penetrate into the nail, hydrogen sulphide easily diffuses through the nail plate. The study found that H2S works by damaging the fungi’s respiratory system and creating harmful reactive oxygen species, while also modifying proteins in a way that disrupts their normal function. This innovative approach could offer patients a new topical treatment option for nail infections that have been difficult to treat with existing medications.

Deep learning application to hyphae and spores identification in fungal fluorescence images

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Researchers developed an artificial intelligence system using two deep learning models to automatically identify fungal infections in microscope images. The system analyzes fluorescence-stained samples to detect fungal spores, hyphae, and mycelium with accuracy matching experienced doctors. This automated approach can significantly reduce the time clinicians spend examining samples and help prevent misdiagnosis, especially in hospitals with fewer specialist technicians.

Dual-Emission FRET-PCR Outperforms SYBR Green and EvaGreen for Accurate Discrimination of Primary Canine Dermatophytes: Microsporum canis, Nannizzia gypsea, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes

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This research developed a new rapid test called FRET-PCR that can identify three common fungal infections in dogs within 2.5 hours, compared to 2-4 weeks for traditional culture methods. The test works by detecting specific genetic markers in fungal DNA and measuring temperature changes that differ for each fungal species. When compared to two other molecular tests (SYBR Green and EvaGreen), the FRET-PCR method was more accurate and sensitive, even able to detect a single copy of the target gene. This faster, more accurate identification will help veterinarians choose the right treatment more quickly and prevent spread of fungal infections.

Superficial Fungal Infections in the Pediatric Dermatological Population of Northern Poland

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This study examined fungal skin infections in children and teenagers in northern Poland from 2019 to 2024. Researchers tested over 1,200 young patients and found that about 1 in 5 had a fungal infection. The most common culprits were specific fungi that cause scalp infections in young children and foot/nail infections in teenagers. Interestingly, children living in rural areas were more likely to have these infections, even though more urban children were tested.

Deep learning application to hyphae and spores identification in fungal fluorescence images

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Researchers developed an artificial intelligence system that can automatically identify fungal infections in microscope images as accurately as experienced doctors. The system uses two different AI models working together to spot fungal spores, thread-like hyphae, and mycelium in fluorescence images. This technology could significantly reduce the time doctors spend analyzing samples and help ensure more accurate diagnoses, especially in hospitals with fewer experienced specialists.

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.

PCR enables rapid detection of dermatophytes in practice

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Researchers in Finland studied how a fast DNA test (PCR) can detect fungal skin infections better than traditional slow culture methods. The new test, called DermaGenius, gives results in just 16 hours instead of 19 days. By 2022, most fungal infection samples were tested using this faster method, which helps doctors treat patients quickly without unnecessary medications.

Disease: superficial fungal infections