Dermatophyte basics
Dermatophyte fungus refers to a group of fungi that invade keratinized skin, hair, and nails. In Korea, warm, humid summers and crowded living spaces raise the risk of these infections. The main culprits are fungi in the genera Microsporum, Trichophyton, and Epidermophyton. Typical infections appear on feet, groin, and nails, and can spread through shared floors and towels.
Clinical signs include scaly patches, ringlike borders, and persistent itching. Distinguishing dermatophyte infections from eczema or psoriasis relies on distribution and edge characteristics. A clinician may use a Wood lamp, potassium hydroxide preparation, or fungal culture to confirm. Early diagnosis helps prevent nail involvement and secondary bacterial infection.
Signs and diagnosis
Signs vary by site, with ring-shaped rashes on the body or web spaces between toes. Itching commonly accompanies the infection, sometimes intensifying at night or after sweating. Nail involvement may present as thickening, yellowing, or crumbling edges. A careful history of footwear, public facilities, and recent travels supports the clinical suspicion.
Diagnostic tests include direct microscopy with KOH and fungal culture to identify the species. Dermoscopy can aid in complex cases but should be interpreted by experienced clinicians. Wood lamp examination helps in some species but is not definitive for all dermatophyte fungi. Differential diagnosis includes dermatitis, candidiasis, and other inflammatory skin diseases.
Korean treatment
Most infections respond to topical antifungals such as azoles or allylamines, applied consistently over weeks. Common choices include clotrimazole, miconazole, and terbinafine, taken once or twice daily as directed. For extensive or nail involvement, oral antifungals like terbinafine or itraconazole may be prescribed. Treatment duration depends on site and severity, with nails requiring several months of therapy.
Adherence and skin barrier care reduce relapse, so keep the area dry and avoid occlusive footwear. Regular follow-up ensures liver function monitoring when systemic therapy is used. After clearance, a preventive plan includes antifungal powders and routine foot hygiene. In Korea, access to dermatology care supports timely diagnosis and appropriate therapy across urban and regional clinics.