Sexual Transmission of a New Emerging Dermatophyte: T. Mentagrophytes Genotype VII

The emergence of Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII (TMVII) as a sexually transmitted dermatophyte is highlighted, with a focus on its prevalence among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Europe. Recent studies from France and Italy report 41 new cases, emphasizing the need for awareness among clinicians due to the potential for human-to-human transmission and misdiagnosis as bacterial infections. TMVII infections often present as highly inflammatory lesions, sometimes leading to scarring or hair loss, and are primarily found in individuals with a high-risk STD profile. The studies underscore the importance of molecular identification and prompt treatment with terbinafine to prevent further spread.