Research Keyword: Trichophyton

Wildlife Dermatophytoses in Central Italy (Umbria and Marche Regions): A Fifteen-Year Investigation (2010–2024)

Researchers in central Italy studied fungal skin infections in wild animals over 15 years to understand disease patterns and public health risks. They found that about 11% of wild animals tested positive for dermatophytes (skin fungi), with some species dangerous to humans. The most common fungi found were Paraphyton mirabile and Trichophyton mentagrophytes, which can spread to people through contact with infected animals. The study highlights the importance of monitoring wildlife health and using protective equipment when handling wild animals.

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Superficial Fungal Infections in Children—What Do We Know?

Superficial fungal infections like ringworm and athlete’s foot are common in children and are caused by fungi, yeasts, or molds that spread through contact with infected people, animals, or contaminated surfaces. These infections primarily affect the scalp, skin, and nails, with scalp infections being most common in young children. Treatment typically uses topical creams for mild cases or oral medications for more severe infections, particularly those affecting nails or the scalp. Proper hygiene, avoiding contaminated areas, and limiting contact with infected individuals or animals are key to prevention.

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First Step on the Way to Identify Dermatophytes Using Odour Fingerprints

Researchers have developed a new method to quickly identify fungal skin infections caused by dermatophytes by detecting the unique smells (volatile compounds) they produce. Instead of waiting days or weeks for culture-based tests, this approach uses advanced chemical analysis to create a fingerprint of the fungus based on its odor. The study analyzed 47 different dermatophyte strains and found that each species and even individual strains have distinctive chemical signatures, which could one day allow doctors to diagnose infections rapidly using portable devices similar to electronic noses.

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A Case of Superficial Mycoses in a Patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

A 52-year-old woman with lupus developed severe fungal skin infections that were initially mistaken for worsening lupus symptoms. Her condition improved after 6 months of treatment with two antifungal medications (terbinafine and itraconazole). This case reminds doctors that patients taking immunosuppressive medications for lupus are at high risk for fungal infections, which can be misdiagnosed as lupus flares.

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