Trichophyton

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Trichophyton is a genus of fungi, which includes the parasitic varieties that cause tinea, including athlete's foot, ringworm, jock itch, and similar infections of the nail, beard, skin and scalp.

Classification[edit | edit source]

Trichophyton is a genus that belongs to the phylum Ascomycota, class Eurotiomycetes, order Onygenales, family Arthrodermataceae.

Species[edit | edit source]

Trichophyton has several species, including:

Pathogenesis[edit | edit source]

Trichophyton species are able to invade the keratin tissues of humans and other animals. They cause infections by producing spores that are resistant to adverse environmental conditions and can remain viable for long periods.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of Trichophyton infections is usually made by microscopic examination of skin scrapings or plucked hairs using a potassium hydroxide preparation, or by culture on a special medium.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment of Trichophyton infections usually involves topical or oral antifungal medications, such as terbinafine, itraconazole, or griseofulvin.

See also[edit | edit source]

Trichophyton Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD