What are the main causes of tinea infection ??? And tinea’s treatment ???
Tinea is the name of a group of diseases caused by a fungus. Types of tinea include ringworm, athlete's foot and jock itch. These infections are usually not serious, but they can be uncomfortable. You can get them by touching an infected person, from damp surfaces such as shower floors, or even from a pet.
Tinea Pedis (Athlete's foot) This is the most common type of fungal infection and only affects humans. It is spread by direct contact, most often through bare feet in bathrooms and health clubs. Leather or plastic footwear that doesn't "breathe" encourages tinea pedis.
Onychomycosis (Tinea unguium, nail fungus) Toenail infection is usually associated with tinea pedis. It is very difficult to eradicate. Often the great toenail is the first to show signs, especially if it has been injured. The nail yellows, and after years thickens and breaks easily.
Tinea Cruris (Jock itch) Some subjects with tinea pedis also develop a rash in the groin (tinea cruris), especially if they tend to sweat a lot. It is common and affects men more often than women. It has an itchy spreading red border.
Tinea Corporis (Ringworm) Tinea corporis is the name given to a fungus infection of the skin that is not one of the other ones listed here. It may be spread from person to person, from contact with an infected animal, most often a cat, or from exposure to fungus in the soil. Itchy red scaly patches come up anywhere the animal has rubbed. They often develop into a ring.
Tinea Capitis (Scalp ringworm) Tinea capitis usually occurs mostly in children and results in scaling and patchy hair loss. It is epidemic in many African American communities. The scalp can look quite moth-eaten but with the right treatment the hair will grow back normally and will not result in permanent hair loss.
Tinea infections can be treated by a variety of different medications: griseofulvin (Grispeg, Fulvicin) terbinafine (Lamisil) itraconazole (Sporonox) fluconazole (Diflucan). Tinea capitis, tinea unguium and chronic tinea pedis are difficult to eradicate completely and require oral treatment.
