Tinea manuum

Tinea Manuum is a dermatophytic infection that affects the hands. It is caused by a type of fungus known as dermatophytes, which are microscopic organisms that can invade the skin, hair, and nails.

Causes

Tinea Manuum is primarily caused by two types of dermatophytes: Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and can be contracted through direct contact with an infected person or animal, or indirectly through contact with contaminated objects or surfaces.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of Tinea Manuum include:

• Red, scaly patches on the skin
• Itching
• Burning sensation
• Cracked skin
• Blisters or sores

In some cases, the infection can also spread to the nails, causing them to become discolored, thickened, and brittle.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Tinea Manuum is typically made based on the appearance of the skin. However, to confirm the diagnosis, a doctor may take a skin scraping or biopsy for microscopic examination or fungal culture.

Treatment

Treatment for Tinea Manuum usually involves the use of antifungal medications. These can be applied topically (directly to the skin) or taken orally, depending on the severity of the infection. In severe cases, it may take several weeks or even months for the infection to completely clear up.

Prevention

Prevention strategies for Tinea Manuum include:

• Regular hand washing
• Avoiding direct contact with infected individuals or animals
• Not sharing personal items such as towels or nail clippers
• Wearing gloves when handling contaminated objects or surfaces

See Also

• Tinea Pedis
• Tinea Corporis
• Tinea Cruris
• Tinea Capitis

Tinea manuum Resources
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