Superficial tinea infections

Abstract

Dermatophytes commonly cause superficial dermatoses, especially in children, but these infections are frequently misdiagnosed as nonfungal disease. Superficial tinea infections can vary widely in appearance, ranging from a single, small, circular lesion with mild erythema and a scaling active border to multiple large areas of marked inflammation with vesicle formation. Therefore, laboratory tests, particularly the potassium hydroxide slide preparation, are often necessary to establish the diagnosis. The culture becomes particularly important if the smear is negative but a superficial dermatosis is strongly suspected. Tinea capitis is frequently diagnosed only by culture. Since many agents are available to treat superficial dermatoses, cost should be an important consideration in the selection of a topical antifungal agent. Oral agents are recommended for scalp and nail infections, as well as extensive body infections. Griseofulvin is the oral agent of choice because of its efficacy and low toxicity.