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Fungal infections may be given different names depending on site, causative organism or clinical presentation.
For each of the twelve cases, study the image(s) and then answer the questions. You can click on the image to view a larger version if required.
Each case should take approximately 2 minutes to complete. There is a list of suggested further reading material at the end of the quiz.
What is this condition called?
Tinea pedis
What is the most likely cause?
Trichophyton rubrum
How would you treat it?
Tinea pedis is the most common site for dermatophytes; something like 70% of adults are infected at some time. Severity of infection may depend on host factors (e.g. underlying disease and presence of antimicrobial peptides in the stratum corneum) and the environment (humidity, occlusive footwear and hyperhidrosis aggravate symptoms). Look for scale on the sole of the foot (T. rubrum) or clusters of pustules (T. interdigitale). It's often unilateral.
Topical treatment usually suffices but systemic treatment may be necessary for severe or persistent disease, especially if there is nail involvement. Recurrence is frequent.