[Moder classification of dermatophytes]

Abstract

Dermatophytes are classified according to two systems. The first, or parasitic classifications of Sabouraud, rests on the morphology of the dermatophytes on the hair in vivo (Achorion, Trichophyton endothrix or ectothrix microides and megaspores, Microsporum) or on the absence of growth on the hair in vivo (Epidermophyton). In the second type they are classified according to their saprophytic morphology. There are many classification of this type based on the asexual state of the dermatophytes, e.g. the classification of Emmons (Trichophyton, Microsporum, Epidermophyton) or the classification of Vanbreuseghem and De Vroey (Microides, Trichophyton, Microsporum, Epidermophyton, Keratinomyces). As the existence of a sexual state of the dermatophytes has been demonstrated, the dermatophytes are also classified in two perfect genera: Arthroderma and Nannizzia. In this paper it is assumed that both classification have to be used because they are not correlated.