Trichophyton mentagrophytes

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

Trichophyton mentagrophytes[edit | edit source]

Trichophyton mentagrophytes in a petri dish

Trichophyton mentagrophytes is a species of fungus in the genus Trichophyton. It is a common cause of dermatophytosis, a fungal infection of the skin, hair, and nails. This species is known for its ability to infect a wide range of hosts, including humans and animals.

Description[edit | edit source]

Trichophyton mentagrophytes is characterized by its ability to produce both macroconidia and microconidia. The macroconidia are typically cigar-shaped, while the microconidia are spherical to pyriform. The colonies of T. mentagrophytes can vary in appearance, often presenting as white to cream-colored with a powdery texture.

Pathogenicity[edit | edit source]

Trichophyton mentagrophytes is a major cause of athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm. It can infect the keratinized tissues of the body, leading to symptoms such as itching, redness, and scaling. The fungus is transmitted through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of infections caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes typically involves clinical examination and laboratory tests. Microscopic examination of skin scrapings, hair, or nail samples can reveal the presence of fungal elements. Culture on Sabouraud agar is used to isolate and identify the fungus.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment of infections caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes often involves the use of topical or oral antifungal medications. Common treatments include terbinafine, itraconazole, and griseofulvin. Proper hygiene and avoidance of contaminated surfaces are important preventive measures.

Related pages[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD