Skin Fungal Infections in Children: Diagnostic Challenges

Abstract

Children are usually affected by superficial mycoses; however, subcutaneous mycoses are rarer and difficult to diagnose since their presentation, risk factors, epidemiology, and probably pathophysiology sometimes differ from adults. This article provides an updated overview of skin fungal infections affecting children, their clinical manifestations, and practical approaches for a correct diagnosis and management. Skin fungal infections in children have increased in number in the last decades. The majority of children suffer from one at least one time during infancy. This is probably the result of changing lifestyles, and immunosuppression (such as HIV, transplants, neoplastic diseases, and iatrogenic immunosuppression). Children can suffer from a superficial fungal infection (skin, nails, and hair), which usually is easily diagnosed and amenable to treatment; but subcutaneous fungal infections may cause difficulties in diagnosis and treatment. The incidence rate is increasing at an alarming rate and available treatments should be chosen carefully in order to avoid future resistance.