Superficial fungal infections
Superficial fungal infections (SFIs) are common, benign infections affecting skin, hair, scalp, or nails caused mainly by dermatophytes that feed on keratin. Other fungi like yeasts and moulds can also cause these mycoses, sometimes in combination. The World Health Organization estimates that SFIs affect 25% of the global population.
What causes them and how they are transmitted?
SFIs are transmitted through human, animal, or environmental contact. Human transmission occurs via contact with infected persons, contaminated objects like towels or yoga mats, or surfaces such as public pool floors. Animal transmission happens through direct contact with infected pets like dogs and cats. Environmental transmission happens via contaminated soil, for example, during gardening.
Risk factors
Several conditions increase susceptibility to SFIs including humid heat, skin sores, improper hygiene, chronic diseases like diabetes or poor circulation, immunodeficiency, and use of antibiotics or corticosteroids.
Common symptoms
Symptoms vary based on infection location and fungal type. Nail fungus (onychomycosis) presents as white or yellow spots, thickened, deformed nails, or nail detachment without pain or itching. Athlete’s foot typically causes itching, burning, cracked, and scaly skin between toes.
Diagnosing SFIs using molecular analysis
Diagnosis involves taking skin or nail samples examined through molecular DNA analysis, which can detect over 50 types of fungi simultaneously, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and moulds in single or mixed infections. This precise method is carried out in accredited laboratories for fast, accurate identification.
The advantages of molecular analysis
More precise diagnosis: SFIs often resemble other skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema, making diagnosis challenging. Molecular testing confirms or rules out fungal infections accurately, helping select effective treatment and prevent reinfections by identifying the causative fungi.
Detecting mixed infections: Mixed fungal infections are harder to treat and prone to recurrence. Molecular analysis detects multiple pathogens from one sample, improving treatment outcomes.
Reliable and fast results: Over 50 fungal types can be detected, including those difficult to identify with traditional culturing methods. Results are delivered within 7 days, much faster than microscopy or culture which can take over four weeks.
Our services assist podiatrists in diagnosing superficial fungal infections of nails and skin, ensuring accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
References
1. Sai BS et al., Int J Sci Res. 2019;8.
2. Ameli: https://www.ameli.fr/assure/sante/themes/mycose-cutanee-peau/prevention.
3. Chris G. Adigun, Merck Manual: https://www.merckmanuals.com/en-ca/home/skin-disorders/nail-disorders/onychomycosis.
5. https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/skin-disorders/fungal-skin-infections/athlete-s-foot-tinea-pedis