Cutaneous fungus infections in children.

Abstract

Cutaneous fungus infection in children may be either superficial or deep. The most common superficial infections include versicolor, capitis, corporis, cruris, pedis, and candidiasis. Ringworm is a common term used to describe these infections, stemming from the fact that tinea is Latin for worm or moth. The only deep fungal infection discussed in this review is sporotrichosis. Diagnostic Methods All forms of superficial fungal infection can be diagnosed easily with a variety of quick, simple, and inexpensive diagnostic methods. Once mastered, the tests need not be used on patients with obvious diagnoses; nevertheless, confirmation of one9s clinical impression is personally satisfying and often important. POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE Superficial fungal infections of the skin involve the outer portion of the epidermis, including the hair and nails. Hyphae and spores are visible easily with low-to-moderate microscopic magnification. With the exception of mucous membranes or eroded surfaces (as often found in the case of candidiasis), skin and hair for sampling should be moistened with a drop of water or an alcohol swab. The skin should be abraded gently with the round belly of a 15 blade at the active margin of corporis or, in the case of capitis, any place where alopecia is visible.