Tineas—Superficial Dermatophyte Infections
November 1998
in “
Pediatrics in review
”
TLDR Scalp fungal infections need oral antifungals, while other skin fungal infections can be treated with creams; keep areas dry and don't stop treatment early.
The document discussed the prevalence and characteristics of superficial dermatophyte infections, known as tineas, caused by about 40 fungal species from the Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton genera. These fungi invade keratin in the skin, nails, and hair, leading to conditions like tinea capitis (scalp infection) and tinea corporis (body surface infection), which are common reasons for pediatric visits. Tinea pedis (foot infection) was noted to be less common. The document highlighted the widespread nature of these infections and their significant impact on children's health.
