Dermatophytes are fungi that cause skin, hair, and nail infections. Infections caused by these fungi are also sometimes known as "ringworm" or "tinea." Despite the name "ringworm," this infection is not caused by a worm, but by a type of fungus called a dermatophyte. Dermatophytes can live on moist areas of the skin, on environmental surfaces, and on household items such as clothing, towels, and bedding.
Anyone can get a dermatophyte infection, including animals. Click here for more information on pets and ringworm.
For other Fungal topics, visit the Fungal Homepage.
Photomicrograph of the dermatophyte Trichophyton mentagrophytes
Dermatophytes Topics
Definition
What are dermatophytes?
Symptoms
Itching, redness, hair and nail changes…
Risk & Prevention
Who gets it and how it can be prevented…
Causes
Direct contact, contaminated surfaces…
Diagnosis & Testing
See your health care provider, sample tissue, clinical diagnosis…
Treatment & Outcomes
Antifungal treatment, resolution of symptoms…
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- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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