(2) Treatment. Lather in Selsun daily. Wash affected areas in diluted
vinegar or apply plain vinegar, which should be left on 24 hours a day for 7 days. Use
medications that can be applied topically including tolnaftate (Tinactin) solution (RX 21)
and acrisorcin (Akrinol) cream. Other medications that control this fungal disease
include miconazole, clotrimazole, and haloprogin applied to the affected area.
Encourage good skin hygiene. If the condition is not properly treated, it will usually
recur.
f. Moniliasis (Candidiasis).
(1) Description/characteristics. Moniliasis is an infection of the skin or
mucous membranes by a yeast-like fungus. Individuals usually affected include
diabetics, obese persons who perspire freely, and pregnant women. Oral
contraceptives, antibiotics, severe illness, and moist, hot skin also cause moniliasis.
The lesions appear in moist skin fold areas and are bright red macules. Red moist
lesions develop in the crotch without central clear zones. On the penis, the areas will
be red and white. On the vagina or mouth (thrush), there will be a whitish thick coat
(curds with flecks). Satellite or advance lesions will appear outward from the border of
the main lesion.
(2) Treatment. Initial management of moniliasis includes washing the area
frequently, keeping the area dry, and using nystatin cream or powder. Then, follow
these procedures: Keep the area as dry as possible. Use nystatin cream or ointment
every 4 hours topically; use nystatin oral suspension for thrush. The brand name for
nystatin is Mycostatin. Neomycin contains nystatin plus a steroid, neomycin sulfate,
and gramicidin. Mycolog cream or gentian violet can be applied. Check the patient's
urine for glucose or fasting blood sugar to check for diabetes. If the patient does not
respond to conservative therapy, refer him to a physician. Ask males if the wife is
having a thick, white vaginal discharge. Nystatin vaginal suppositories can also be
used.
4-6.
CLOSING
The single most contributing factor producing skin diseases is poor personal
hygiene. Educating the troops is the best preventive measure for skin diseases. In
making a good evaluation, take into account all the factors covered in this lesson.
MD0575
4-13