Fungal Infections

Fungal infections are the most common and contagious skin infections in the world. They are mostly caused due to dermatophytes and yeast. These fungi live on the skin and take over a certain area which later gets infected.

Types of Dermatophytic Fungal Infections

These infections are basic superficial skin infections.

• Ringworm on the body: This infection is also known as ‘tinea corporis’ which is seen on various body parts like abdomen, limbs, shoulder. It looks like a flat, raised, round margins lesion which spreads from centre to the periphery.
• Ringworm on the scalp: This is also known as ‘tinea capitis’. It presents itself as dry scaly patches with itching. In some cases painful patches with oozing of pus can be seen.
• Jock itch: It’s a type of ringworm which is observed in the groin area and inner thighs. Its extremely itchy and painful with redness all over the infected area. Mostly seen in men who sweat a lot.
• Athlete’s foot: It’s another ringworm infection seen in the foot and toes where the skin is warm and moist and humid. It represents as red, scaly, dry patches and is sometimes associated with cracks and blisters which can lead to secondary bacterial infection.
• Fungal infection of nails(Onychomycosis): This infection is caused due to fungus spreading from the nail into the nail bed. The nails become thick and rough. Yellow or white lines or spots under the tip of the nails are seen. The edges of these nails are brittle and break easily. Separation of the nail from the nail bed is observed in some cases.

Types of Yeast Fungal Infections:

This is another type of fungus which leads to infection of skin including mucous membranes as follows:

• Thrush- (Oral and Vaginal): Thrush is caused by yeast called candida albicans which naturally resides in the mouth, throat, vagina, gut without causing any problem. But in certain situations like uncontrolled diabetes, immuno-compromised disease, excessive smoking, pregnancy and use of antibiotics, these fungi proliferate and multiply in number which leads to symptoms of thrush. Thrush looks like a white, cheesy and raised  lesion or patches on the tongue or insides of the cheeks. The lesion has soreness, redness  and becomes painful with irritation especially in the mouth. Vaginal thrush causes dryness, itching or burning in the area with thick, white, cheesy discharge.
• Pityriasis versicolor: It is caused by a yeast called ‘Malassezzia’. It causes discolored patches on the skin which can be itchy at times. It can be red, pink or lighter than the surrounding skin. Appears mostly on the neck, chest, back and arms.

Sign & Symptoms:

• Redness, burning, stinging sensation all over the area.
• Red, scaly lesion with flakes all around the infected area which spreads from centre to periphery.
• Intense itching over the rash. Itching can cause secondary infection associated with cracks and blisters.

Treatments:

General measures:

• Wash the affected area and dry it well.
• Wash your sheets, clothes, towels properly in hot water.
• Do not share your personal belongings.eg towels, toothbrush, combs.
• Wear loose and breathable clothes.
• Always prefer well fitted and breathable shoes.

Medicines:

• Topical treatment in the form antifungal creams, lotions, powders, gels and shampoos are prescribed.
• Vaginal thrush may need an antifungal pessary.
• Oral antifungals are given along with topical treatment.
• Antihistamines are given for itching along with other medicines.