Trichophyton tonsurans

From WikiMD.com - Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Trichophyton tonsurans[edit | edit source]

Micrograph of Trichophyton tonsurans
Colony morphology of Trichophyton tonsurans

Trichophyton tonsurans is a fungus that is a common cause of dermatophytosis, particularly tinea capitis, which is an infection of the scalp. It is an anthropophilic fungus, meaning it primarily infects humans.

Description[edit | edit source]

Trichophyton tonsurans is characterized by its ability to invade the keratinized tissues of the body, such as the skin, hair, and nails. The fungus produces macroconidia and microconidia, with the latter being more common. The colonies of T. tonsurans are typically flat, with a suede-like texture and can vary in color from white to yellowish-brown.

Pathogenicity[edit | edit source]

Trichophyton tonsurans is a major cause of tinea capitis, especially in children. The infection is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with an infected person or through contact with contaminated objects such as combs, hats, or towels. Symptoms of tinea capitis include itching, scaling, and hair loss in the affected area.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of Trichophyton tonsurans infection is typically made through clinical examination and confirmed by laboratory tests. Microscopy and culture of skin scrapings or hair samples can be used to identify the fungus. Molecular techniques such as PCR may also be employed for more accurate identification.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment of infections caused by Trichophyton tonsurans usually involves the use of antifungal medications. Oral antifungals such as griseofulvin or terbinafine are commonly prescribed for tinea capitis. Topical antifungal treatments may also be used in conjunction with oral medications.

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

Trichophyton tonsurans is found worldwide but is more prevalent in certain regions. It is a leading cause of tinea capitis in North America and parts of Europe. The fungus is particularly common in urban areas and among populations with close living conditions.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Preventive measures include maintaining good personal hygiene, avoiding sharing personal items, and treating infected individuals promptly to prevent the spread of the fungus. Regular cleaning and disinfection of potentially contaminated objects can also help reduce transmission.

Related pages[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  • Gupta, A. K., & Summerbell, R. C. (2000). "Increased incidence of Trichophyton tonsurans tinea capitis in Ontario, Canada between 1985 and 1996." Medical Mycology, 38(2), 155-162.
  • Hay, R. J., & Moore, M. K. (2004). "Mycology of scalp ringworm." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 50(1), 1-20.
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP1 injections from $125

W8mdlogo.png
W8MD weight loss doctors team

W8MD offers a medical weight loss program NYC and a clinic to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our W8MD's physician supervised medical weight loss centers in NYC provides expert medical guidance, and offers telemedicine options for convenience.

Why choose W8MD?

Book Your Appointment

Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss, and Philadelphia medical weight loss Call (718)946-5500 for NY and 215 676 2334 for PA

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's NYC physician weight loss.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available. Call 718 946 5500.
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