dermatophytosis /dur′mətō′fītō″sis/ [Gk, derma + phyton, plant, osis, condition] , a superficial fungus infection involving the stratum corneum of the skin, hair, and nails, caused by Microsporum, Epidermophyton, or Trichophyton species of dermatophyte. On the trunk and upper extremities it is commonly called “ringworm” infection and is characterized by round or oval scaly patches with slightly raised borders and clearing centers. On the feet small vesicles, cracking, itching, scaling, and often secondary bacterial infections occur and are commonly called “athlete’s foot.” Treatment includes topical antifungal agents, as tolnaftate, clotrimazole, and undecylenic acid, and oral griseofulvin. Fingernails and toenails respond poorly to topical treatment. Also called epidermomycosis. See also tinea.
