​Infectious Diseases and Microbiology - Tinea Capitis ( Trichosporon tonsurans and Microsporum canis)

​Infectious Diseases and Microbiology - Tinea Capitis  ( Trichosporon tonsurans and Microsporum canis) 
Tinea Capitis, often known as Ringworm, is a fungal infection that affects the scalp.
 Tinea capitis, also known as scalp ringworm, is mostly caused by the fungi Trichophyton tonsurans and the zoophilic Microsporum canis. Tinea infections are spread through direct contact with infected individuals or animals (zoophilic species), or indirectly through contact with shed skin or hair on objects including clothing, towels, combs, and brushes. Tinea capitis primarily affects children and has the potential to spread quickly within a family or school setting. Onychomycosis, which is a fungal infection of the nails caused by dermatophytes, impacts approximately 20% of adults in the United States and has a notable negative impact on social well-being.

Tinea capitis is a condition that is identified by dry, round, scaly, itchy, red lesions on the scalp. It can also cause patches of hair loss.

Dermatophytes are fungi that have an affinity for keratin and cause infections that are limited to the skin, hair, and nails. Dermatophytes produce keratinase, an enzyme that breaks down keratin and triggers an inflammatory reaction that restricts the spread of infection.
The occurrence of deeper tissue invasion is infrequent due to the nonspecific host defense mechanisms. Individuals with impairments in cell-mediated immunity are susceptible to chronic or widespread dermatophyte infections.

Microscopic analysis of skin, hair, or nails using a KOH preparation reveals the presence of hyphae and diagnostic conidia that are specific to the dermatophyte. Some fungus, specifically Microsporum, exhibit fluorescence when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light.

Dermatophyte infections are commonly treated using topical applications of tolnaftate and terbinafine. Systemic treatment for onychomycosis involves the administration of either itraconazole or terbinafine. Maintaining proper personal hygiene is crucial for prevention.
Written observations or records of information. Additional types of tinea infections include tinea cruris, commonly known as "jock itch," which is typically caused by Trichophyton rubrum or Epidermophyton floccosum. Tinea pedis, also known as "athlete's foot," is usually caused by T rubrum, T mentagrophytes, or E floccosum. Tinea barbae is typically caused by the zoophilic T verrucosum. Tinea unguium, or onychomycosis, is usually caused by T rubrum.