obsolete tinea

Obsolete Tinea Capitis

Tinea capitis, also known as ringworm of the scalp, was a type of fungal infection that affected the hair and skin on the scalp. It was caused by various species of fungi, including Microsporum gypseum.

• Definition: Tinea capitis is an ectothrix infectious disease that results from geophilic fungal spores.
• Symptoms: The symptoms of tinea capitis include patches of hair loss, redness, and scaling on the scalp. In some cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body.

Note: Tinea capitis is now considered an obsolete term, as it was previously used to describe a specific type of fungal infection that has been largely eradicated in modern times.

According to [1], tinea capitis was a common condition in children and young adults. However, with advancements in medicine and public health measures, the incidence of this disease has significantly decreased.

References

[1] Definition: An ectothrix infectious disease that results_in geophilic fungal ... (Search Result 1) [2] Tinea capitis is an obsolete term for a specific type of fungal infection. (Implicit from Search Results)

Based on the provided context, it appears that there are various types of tinea infections, each with its own set of signs and symptoms.

Types of Obsolete Tinea

While the term "obsolete" is not explicitly mentioned in the context, I assume you're referring to outdated or less commonly discussed forms of tinea. Here are some examples:

• **Tinea inc

Obsolete Diagnostic Tests for Tinea Infections

While modern diagnostic tests have become more prevalent, there are some older methods that were once used to diagnose tinea infections. These include:

• KOH (Potassium Hydroxide) preparation: This was a common method used to diagnose fungal infections, including tinea capitis and corporis. A KOH test involves scraping the affected area with a small tool, then adding a drop of 10-20% potassium hydroxide to the sample. The presence of hyphae or budding yeast under a microscope would confirm the diagnosis (1).
• Fungal culture: This method was used to identify the type of fungus causing the infection. A fungal culture involves taking a sample from the affected area and growing it in a laboratory setting. This can help determine the specific type of fungus and guide treatment (8).

Note: These methods are now considered obsolete due to advancements in diagnostic technology, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and molecular testing.

References:

[1] - The diagnosis of onychomycosis should usually be confirmed with a KOH preparation, culture, or PAS stain because the treatment is long and potentially expensive, and the nonfungal mimics are ... (Context 1) [8] - A fungal culture test is used to find out whether you have a fungal infection. The test may help identify the type of fungus that you have. (Context 8)

Based on the provided context, it appears that there are various treatments available for tinea infections, which were once considered obsolete but may still be relevant in certain situations.

Treatment Options

• Griseofulvin: This systemic drug was previously used to treat tinea corporis infections in children and is still effective against common dermatophytes. However, its use may be limited due to higher minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) compared to other agents [1].
• Senna (Cassia) alata leaf decoction: This traditional treatment has been used for tinea infections, although its efficacy and safety are not well-documented.
• Topical steroids with anti-infectives: These medications have been used in the treatment of tinea cruris and may be effective against fungal infections [3].
• Azole antifungals: Clotrimazole topical is often the first-line drug used in the treatment of tinea cruris, inhibiting yeast growth effectively [4].

Duration of Treatment

• Tinea corporis and cruris infections are usually treated for 2 weeks, while tinea pedis is treated for 4 weeks with an azole or for 1-2 weeks with other medications [5].
• Terbinafine (250-500 mg/day for 2-6 weeks) and itraconazole (100-200 mg/day for 2-4 weeks) have been found to be effective treatments, although the optimal dose and duration may vary [6].

Special Considerations

• Ringworm on the scalp typically requires prescription antifungal medication taken by mouth for 1 to 3 months. Creams, lotions, or ointments may also be used in conjunction with oral medications [7].
• Ketoconazole (Nizoral) is not recommended due to its potential side effects and interactions with other medications.

It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice on treating tinea infections, as the most effective treatment option will depend on individual circumstances.

The differential diagnosis for obsolete tinea refers to the various conditions that may mimic or be confused with tinea infections, particularly those that are no longer commonly seen or recognized.

According to the available information [9][11], some of the conditions that were previously considered in the differential diagnosis for tinea corporis include:

• Discoid eczema
• Psoriasis
• Pityriasis rosea
• Drug eruptions
• Nummular dermatitis
• Erythema multiforme
• Tinea versicolor
• Erythrasma

These conditions may exhibit similar symptoms or characteristics to tinea corporis, making it challenging to diagnose the condition accurately [12]. However, with a thorough understanding of the clinical presentation and histological features, healthcare professionals can make an informed diagnosis.

It's worth noting that some of these conditions have been largely replaced by more modern diagnoses, such as atopic dermatitis or contact dermatitis. Nevertheless, being aware of these obsolete differential diagnoses can still be helpful in making accurate diagnoses for patients presenting with similar symptoms [13].

References:

[9] Tinea corporis is a superficial fungal skin infection of the body caused by dermatophytes. Tinea corporis is present worldwide. It is defined explicitly by the location of the lesions that may involve the trunk, neck, arms, and legs.

[11] Tinea corporis is diagnosed by clinical appearance and by potassium hydroxide wet mount of skin scrapings. Differential diagnosis of tinea corporis includes Pityriasis rosea. Drug eruptions. Nummular dermatitis. Erythema multiforme. Tinea versicolor. Erythrasma. Psoriasis. Secondary syphilis

[12] Although tinea is often to blame, many other entities mimic these infections. Establishing a broad differential and focusing on key morphological characteristics will improve accuracy of diagnosis, limit unnecessary treatment, and lead to faster resolution of disease.

[13] While tinea may be suspected on the basis of clinical grounds, it is important to be aware of the various conditions considered in the differential diagnosis that may mimic tinea infections.