Section III. ANTIFUNGAL AGENTS
6-10. INTRODUCTION
A dermatophyte is a fungus parasite upon the skin. For convenience, fungal
infections are classified as deep (systemic) mycoses and superficial mycoses
(dermatophytoses; fungal infections of the skin, hair, or nails).
a. Superficial Mycoses. Superficial infections of the skin are often chronic and
resistant to treatment, but the general health of the client is rarely affected. The drugs
discussed in this section are useful only for superficial mycoses. The names of some
common dermatophytoses are provided below with the affected area of the body
indicated after the dash.
(1)
Tinea axillaris--armpit.
(2)
Tinea palmaris--palm of the hand.
(3)
Tinea pedis (athlete's foot)--foot.
(4)
Tinea corporis (ringworm)--nonhairy skin.
(5)
Tinea capitis (ringworm)--scalp.
(6)
Tinea cruris ("jock itch")--upper surface of the thighs.
(7)
Tinea versicolor--brownish-red scaling patches on the neck, arms, and
trunk.
b. Candidiasis. Candidiasis (moniliasis) is an infection caused by Candida (the
pathogenic species in man is Candida albicans). This yeast-like fungus is normally
present on the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and female
genital tracts, but when the body defense mechanisms are weakened or when other
microbes have been destroyed by antimicrobial therapy, Candida albicans can establish
dominance in these and other areas. Candidiasis of the throat is called thrush.
c. Deep Mycoses. Deep mycoses are often accompanied by systemic
involvement, can be fatal, and are exceedingly difficult to treat. Fortunately, they are
not common.
6-11. GRISEOFULVIN TABLETS
a. Indications. Griseofulvin (Fulvicin U/F) tablets are indicated for the treatment
of dermatophytosis, including ringworm.
MD0913
6-10
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