2-20. PATHOGENIC FUNGI
a. Fungal infections are of two types: localized skin infections
(dermatomycoses), and systemic infections. Although the former are far more common,
the latter generally have more serious consequences. Table 2-6 lists the more common
fungus diseases and the important etiological agents in each. Note that frequently more
than one species of organism may cause identical symptoms.
Disease
Synonym or Brief Description
Important Etiological
Agents
CUTANEOUS AND SUPERFICIAL MYCOSES
Tinea capitis'
Ringworm of the scalp
Microsporum spp
Trichophyton spp
Tinea corporis
Ringworm of the body
Same as Tinea capitis
Tinia barbae
Infection of bearded area of face and
Trichophyton spp
neck
Tinea cruris
Ringworm of the groin (jock itch)
Trichophyton spp
Candida albicans
Epidermophyton floccosum
Tinea pedis
Ringworm of the feet (athlete's foot)
Same as Tinea cruris
Tinea versicolor
Malassezia furfur
Depigmented, scaly patches of skin
Aspergillus spp
Otomycosis
Fungus infection of the ear canal
(aspergillosis)
Candida albicans and other
Cutaneous
Yeast infection of nails, skin, mouth,
species
Candidiasis
Vagina
(moniliasis, thrush)
Pseudallescheria boydii and
other
Tumor-like swelling, draining
Mycetoma
abscess
Actinomyces israelii
[actuallyclassified as
Chronic, suppurative or granu-
Actinomycosis
bacteria, but cause
lomatous disease of jaw,
fungus-like infections]
thorax, or abdomen
Table 2-6. Common fungus diseases. (continued)
MD0151
2-27