Atypical Tinea Corporis Revealing a Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection

Joelle Brown,Matthew Carvey,Cristina Beiu,Robert Hage

doi:10.7759/cureus.6551

Abstract

Dermatophytes are fungi that commonly cause superficial skin infections. While these rashes are typically benign and easily treated with topical antifungal medications, extensive presentations can indicate a more serious underlying immunodeficiency. We report on a teenage girl whose extensive rash led to a diagnosis of human immunodeficiency infection.

Highlights

Dermatophytes, or tinea, are a type of fungi that infect keratinized tissues
We report on a teenage girl whose extensive rash led to a diagnosis of human immunodeficiency infection
Dermatophyte infections are common worldwide; unusually severe cases have a higher prevalence among immunocompromised patients and warrant further investigation [3]

Summary

Introduction

Dermatophytes, or tinea, are a type of fungi that infect keratinized tissues. These infections are categorized by their anatomical location and typically caused by one of three main species: Microsporum, Epidermophyton, or Trichophyton [1]. “ringworm,” refers to an infection usually on the torso and the limbs, typically caused by the Trichophyton species and acquired through one or more of the following routes: contact with infected humans or animals, exposure to contaminated soil, or exposure to fomites. It is characterized by an annular plaque with advancing, raised erythematous, scaling borders surrounding a clear center [2]. Physicians there performed a potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation that revealed segmented hyphae This led to a diagnosis of tinea corporis. Subsequent testing revealed a positive diagnosis for human immunodeficiency (HIV) infection

Discussion

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Disclosures