Diagnosis and Management of Cutaneous Tinea Infections.

GENERAL PURPOSE

To provide information about the epidemiology, clinical features, and management of cutaneous tinea infections.

TARGET AUDIENCE

This continuing education activity is intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurses with an interest in skin and wound care.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES/OUTCOMES: After completing this continuing education activity, you should be better able to:1. Summarize the epidemiology related to cutaneous tinea infections.2. Describe the clinical features of cutaneous tinea infections.3. Identify features related to the diagnosis and management of cutaneous tinea infections.

ABSTRACT

Dermatophyte or tinea infection refers to a group of superficial fungal infections of the hair, skin, and nails. Tinea infections are most commonly caused by fungi of the genus Trichophyton, Microsporum, or Epidermophyton. Cutaneous manifestations of tinea infections are seen worldwide and classified based on the affected body site. The diagnosis of these conditions is complicated by morphologic variations in presentation and overlap with other common infectious and noninfectious entities. As a result, diagnosis and appropriate management of these conditions are essential to avoid patient morbidity. This case-based review summarizes the epidemiology, relevant clinical features, microbiology, and management considerations for commonly encountered tinea infections.