Fungal skin and soft tissue infections

Curr Opin Infect Dis. 2016 Apr;29(2):124-30. doi: 10.1097/QCO.0000000000000252.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Cutaneous and subcutaneous mycoses are a source of significant morbidity both in immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients. We here review the latest findings in terms of genetic predisposition, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and therapeutic strategies in these diseases.

Recent findings: A growing number of fungal skin and soft tissue infections are reported worldwide. In immunocompromised patients, these infections are often associated with disseminated disease. Skin and soft tissue biopsies usually allow mycological identification. Although tissue culture remains the gold standard, molecular biology is increasingly used and sometimes mandatory for accurate diagnosis. Advances in therapeutics have improved outcome and lowered dissemination risk in patients.

Summary: Cutaneous and subcutaneous mycoses are an evolving field. Clinicians all over the world should be aware of the common manifestations of these diseases - infectious diseases - as they are increasingly reported and may lead to or be associated with dissemination.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use
  • Dermatomycoses / diagnosis
  • Dermatomycoses / epidemiology*
  • Dermatomycoses / microbiology*
  • Dermatomycoses / pathology
  • Fungi / isolation & purification*
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Humans
  • Microbiological Techniques / methods
  • Soft Tissue Infections / diagnosis
  • Soft Tissue Infections / epidemiology*
  • Soft Tissue Infections / microbiology*
  • Soft Tissue Infections / pathology

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents