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.
32 citations,
June 2017 in “Journal of infection/The Journal of infection” The document concludes that terbinafine is effective for treating scalp fungal infections in children and recommends not excluding them from school during treatment, while also highlighting the need for updated treatment guidelines due to changing infection patterns.
54 citations,
October 2019 in “Australian Journal of General Practice” Accurate diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing superficial fungal infections, with terbinafine being the best oral treatment for nail infections.
113 citations,
August 2016 in “Mycopathologia” New topical antifungals and delivery systems are improving treatment for fungal skin infections, but patient education and prevention are key.
Neem leaf extract combined with eucalyptus and lemongrass oils can effectively treat Tinea capitis.
January 2018 in “Springer eBooks” Terbinafine is the most effective medicine for fungal nail infections, especially for diabetics and those with weak immune systems.
28 citations,
March 2010 in “Clinics in dermatology” Doctors have known about fungal skin infections for a long time, but only made major progress in understanding and treating them since the mid-1800s.
