Skin Disorder : Fungal Infection
Mycosis (plural: mycoses) is a condition in which fungipass the resistance barriers of the human or animal body and establish infections.
Classification :
Mycoses are classified according to the tissue levels initially colonized :
- Superficial mycoses - limited to the outermost layers of the skin and hair.
- Cutaneous mycoses - extend deeper into the epidermis, as well as invasive hair and nail diseases. These diseases are restricted to the keratinized layers of the skin, hair, and nails.
- Subcutaneous mycoses - involve the dermis, subcutaneous tissues, muscle, and fascia. These infections are chronic and can be initiated by piercing trauma to the skin, which allows the fungi to enter.
- Systemic mycoses due to primary pathogens - originate primarily in the lungs and may spread to many organ systems. Organisms that cause systemic mycoses are inherently virulent.
- Systemic mycoses due to opportunistic pathogens - infections of patients with immune deficiencies who would otherwise not be infected. Examples of immunocompromised conditions include AIDS, alteration of normal flora by antibiotics, immunosuppressive therapy, and metastatic cancer.
Treatment :
Antifungal drugs are used to treat mycoses. Depending on the nature of the infection, a topical or systemic agent may be used. Photochemotherapy or photopheresis is a technique used at major medical centers for the treatment of mycosis fungoides.
Treatment :
1. Keeping the skin clean and dry, as well as maintaining good hygiene, will help larger topical mycoses. Because fungal infections are contagious, it is important to wash after touching other people or animals.
2. Sports clothing should also be washed after use.
3. Wearing flip-flops if using a community swimming pool or shower will also help prevent topical infections.