Kerion due to microsporum gypseum in a 1-month-old infant

Abstract

Microsporum gypseum is a rare cause of kerion in infancy. Light microscopy, fluorescent microscopy and fungal culture of the infected hair aids in early and correct diagnosis. Griseofulvin is the drug of choice for ectothrix fungi. We report a case of neonatal kerion caused by M. gypseum occurring at the age of 1 month, successfully treated with griseofulvin.

Keywords: Kerion; Microsporum gypseum; neonate.

Figure 1

Erythematous plaque with hair loss on the infant's scalp and an annular, hyperpigmented plaque with central clearing on the mother's hand

Figure 2

(a and b) Small sized ectothrix spores in groups and chains (light microscopy ×40), (c) Accentuation of auto-fluorescence of the hair with destruction of the normal architecture of the cortex (fluorescent microscopy ×10)

Figure 3

(a) Culture tubes showing colonies with white, cottony centers. (b) Colonies colored yellow on the reverse. (c) Culture stained with lactophenol cotton blue showing the characteristic macroconidia (light microscopy ×40)

Figure 4

Healed lesion with regrowth of hair