What is tinea (fungus)?
Dermatophytic infections are caused by one of three genera of dermatophytes: Tricophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton. Tinea infections of the skin are sometimes called “ring worm”, but no “worm” is involved. Tinea infection on the skin is often annular (i.e. a “ring”) and scaly.
All tinea species feed on keratin, which is found in skin, hair and nails. With the assistance of digestive keratinases and nutrient absorbing hyphae, the fungus breaks down keratin. In addition, tinea versicolor (also called pityriasis versicolor), caused by a species of malesezzia, is termed “tinea” as well.
Tinea infections are often referred to by the body region infected: Tinea Capitis, Tinea Corporis, Tinea Cruris, Tinea Faciale, Tinea Manuum, Tinea Pedis, and Tinea Unguium (onychomycosis).
Regardless of the specific type of tinea, the treatment is generally an antifungal medication. Some tinea infections can be treated with topical antifungals, such as ketoconazole cream. However, tinea infection of the nails or hair-bearing areas often require oral medications to clear them, such as terbinafine (Lamisil) or Sporanox (Diflucan). New topical antifungal nail preparations such as Jublia and Keydin are more effective than previous generations of topical nail antifungals, and some nail infections can be cleared with topical treatment. Lasers are sometimes used to treat nail fungus, as well.
Sometimes a fungal infection can be diagnosed with high confidence just by visual inspection by an experienced dermatologist. Confirmatory tests, such as culture, nail clipping, or skin biopsy, are sometimes required.
