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Dermatomycosis

Dermatomycosis is a fungal infection of the skin in which dermatophytes, yeasts or molds infect the top layer of the skin (epidermis), sometimes also hair and nails. Typical clinical pictures are tinea (e.g. athlete's foot, nail fungus, ringworm) or candidiasis, which can manifest as redness, itching and scaling of the skin.

Causes and pathogens

The most common triggers are dermatophilic fungi (dermatophytes) such as Trichophyton, Microsporum or Epidermophyton. Yeasts (e.g. Candida albicans) and molds (e.g. Aspergillus) can also be involved in skin mycoses if the natural skin environment is out of balance.

Risk factors

• Moisture and heat: Fungi multiply particularly in moist environments (e.g. in shoes or between the toes).
• Weakened immune system: Chronic illnesses (e.g. diabetes mellitus) or immunodeficiency increase the risk of infection.
• Direct contact: Transmission can occur through skin contact, shared towels, floors in swimming pools and saunas.

Symptoms

• Redness and itching: Inflammatory, reddened areas of skin often appear.
• Scaling and blistering: The skin may flake or small blisters may appear.
• Ring-shaped spread: Ring-shaped skin changes can typically occur with tinea, hence the term ringworm.

Diagnosis

As a rule, the diagnosis is based on clinical findings (appearance of the skin changes) and microscopic examination (e.g. skin scales under the microscope). Skin samples are taken for a fungal culture in order to identify the exact pathogen.

Treatment

1. Topical antimycotics: Creams, ointments or solutions with active ingredients such as clotrimazole, terbinafine or bifonazole.
2. Systemic antimycotics: Tablets (e.g. fluconazole or itraconazole) may be required for persistent or extensive infections.
3. Hygiene and prevention: Thorough drying of the feet, socks made of breathable materials, wearing bathing shoes in public areas.

Conclusion
Dermatomycosis can usually be treated well if it is recognized in good time. Accurate diagnosis, consistent treatment and preventive measures are important to avoid relapses. If symptoms persist or are severe, those affected should seek medical advice to ensure adequate treatment.