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Dermatophyte reactions

A dermatophyte (ide or id) is an allergy. eruption caused by a inflammatory mushrooms infection (ringworm) at a distant site.

The rash usually itches like dermatitis, with lumps or blisters scattered on the face, trunk and / or extremities. Mushrooms cannot be grown from an ide. The ide can be treated with current steroid and will resolve once the original infection has been controlled.

Clinical features

  • Scattered little dots centered on hair follicles It mainly affects the trunk.It usually follows a kerion (inflammatory tinea corporis or tinea capitis) from a zoophilic (animal) fungus.
  • Cultures of fluid-filled blisters on the palms and back of the hands that resemble pompholyx can arise as a result of severe ringworm of the foot or other dermatophyte infection.
  • Erythema the nodosum may also follow severe ringworm.
Dermatophyte

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Case 1

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Primary infection with zoophilic dermatophytes

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Crusted papules with crust

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Case 2

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Clusters of papules on the knees.

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Pompholyx-like reaction

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a dermatophyte is made by clinical presentation and is confirmed by microscopy and culture of the primary skin infection.

Treatment

Primary fungal infection usually requires an oral antifungal medication to controlHowever, in mild cases, a topical antifungal agent applied to the source of infection (eg, athlete's foot) may be appropriate.

The dermatophyte reaction is a type of eczematous dermatitis, and should be treated with topical steroids and emollients. Occasionally systemic Steroids are required for a few weeks.