JAN 2015
Even though a common infection, individuals and
doctors can sometimes use steroid containing creams
creating a condition called Tinea incognito. This results
in spreading of the infection and a loss of the
characteristic skin changes.
TREATMENT
Simple Tinea infections affecting the skin can be treated
with
antifungal
lotions,
creams
and
shampoos.
Infections of the scalp, nails and chronic widespread
skin infections require oral antifungal treatments.
Fungal spores persist for months in bathrooms,
Fingernails require 6-8 weeks while toenails require
changing rooms and swimming pools. Walking bare
three months.
footed and sharing towels can cause infection.
Scalp
ringworm
requires
two
months
of
oral
Tinea ungium can affect one or more nails and presents
medication. But, children can attend school during
in various ways. Crumbling of the end of the nail
treatment, providing the lesions are not weeping or
associated with unsticking and scaling under the nail.
pustular. Simple hygienic practices as well as avoiding
The surface or lateral border can have a white or yellow
the sharing of combs, hats, pillowcases and frequent use
flaking as well and in severe cases the entire nail can be
of an antifungal shampoo help to prevent spread.
destroyed.
Tinea facei is the name given to infections involving the
face. The appearance can be classical but zoophilic
infections are often misdiagnosed due to the pustular
appearance. When the beard area is involved the
infection is called Tinea Barbae.
Tinea manum is less common and presents as powdery
scaling of the creases of one palm. A cause of jock itch
is Tinea cruris, which affects the groin.
www.bajansunonline.com/MAGAZINE/ | [email protected] | @BajanSunOnline