Peer Reviewed
Feature Article Dermatology
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Therapies for common cutaneous fungal infections

Keng-ee Thai
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Abstract

A practical approach to the diagnosis and treatment of common fungal infections of the skin and hair is provided. Topical antifungal therapies are effective and usually used as first-line therapy, with oral antifungals being saved for recalcitrant infections. Treatment should be for several weeks at least.

Key Points
    • Fungal infection should always be in the differential diagnosis of any scaly rash.
    • Topical antifungal agents are typically adequate treatment for simple tinea.
    • Oral antifungal therapy may be required for extensive disease, fungal folliculitis and tinea involving the face, hair-bearing areas, palms and soles.
    • Tinea should be suspected if there is unilateral hand dermatitis and rash on both feet – ‘one hand and two feet’ involvement.
    • Oral antifungal treatments can often be pulsed intermittently, reducing the overall dose required.
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