Pustular tinea cutis

Abstract

Introduction: Tinea corporis is a fungal skin infection caused by a group of fungi known as Dermatophytes. Microsporum species causes numerous forms of the disease – itching, rash and nail discoloration are the most common symptoms. Infection is limited to the dead layers of the skin but predisposed by moist and warm environment. Nevertheless mostly known as ringworm in pets, it may also infect humans. Case report: A 16-year-old female presented with 3 months history of enlarging polymorphic erythematous, papulopustular changes and scaling of the skin located on the neck, chest, upper and lower extremities accompanied by itching and burning sensation. 1 month before the manifestation of the rash two hamsters were purchased by the family. The patient was treated in the other clinic with topical and oral steroids, topical and oral antibiotics with no significant effect. When admitted to our clinic diagnostic tests such as skin culture and microscopy for fungus, punch biopsy with direct immunofluorescence (DIF) were made. The tests revealed Microsporum species in skin culture, histologically PAS positive hyphae of the fungus in the stratum corneum and no radiance in DIF. The patient was prescribed with local and systemic antimycotic drugs (Naftifine 10 mg/g cream once a day and Itraconasole 200 mg per day oraly) and showed significant improvement. Conclusions: With this case report our goal is to emphasize the importance of the accurate anamnestic data and performance of the right diagnostic tests to determine correct diagnosis and treatment plan for the patient’s best outcome.