Dermatophytosis: Symptoms, Types & Treatment

Dr. Leonardo Rotolo
Clinical review: Dr. Leonardo Rotolo Dermatologist CRM 1004115-RJ
Created by: Tua Saude editing team

Dermatophytosis is a fungal infection that affects the skin or nails, leading to symptoms such as redness, itching, scaling, or nail detachment. The exact symptoms depend on the part of the body affected and the type of fungus involved.

The fungi that cause dermatophytosis, known as dermatophytes, can spread through contact with contaminated animals, people, objects, or soil. They usually affect areas rich in keratin, such as the skin, hair, and nails.

Treatment for dermatophytosis, also known as superficial mycosis, should be guided by a dermatologist. It typically involves antifungal medications and specific care of the affected skin or nails.

Dermatologist examining patient's skin

Common symptoms

The main symptoms of dermatophytosis include:

  • Redness, itching, or scaling of the skin;

  • Round red or whitish patches or plaques on the skin;

  • Nail detachment;

  • Yellowish, grayish, or whitish nails;

  • Hair loss or broken hair strands;

  • Yellow crusts or dandruff on the scalp.

Symptoms can vary depending on the type of fungus and location of the infection. It’s important to see a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Confirming a diagnosis

A dermatologist can diagnose dermatophytosis based on an evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and the appearance of lesions on the skin or nails.

In addition, the doctor may perform a Wood's lamp exam. By observing the type of fluorescence, it may be possible to help identify the specific kind of dermatophytosis.

To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor may scrape a small sample from the affected skin or nail and examine it under a microscope to determine the specific type of fungus involved.

Possible causes

The main causes of dermatophytosis include:

  • Walking barefoot on wet floors in locker rooms or pool areas;

  • Not drying the feet properly;

  • Wearing tight or non-breathable shoes and socks for long periods;

  • Direct contact with infected skin or hair;

  • Frequent exposure to water and soap;

  • Sharing personal items like hairbrushes, combs, towels, hats, socks, shoes, or pillowcases.

Dermatophytosis is caused by dermatophyte fungi, mainly from the Epidermophyton, Microsporum, and Trichophyton genera, which thrive in keratin-rich areas of the body.

It is more common in people with uncontrolled diabetes, weakened immune systems, poor circulation, or those who take antibiotics for extended periods.

Transmission and spread

Transmission of dermatophytosis occurs through contact with animals, people, or contaminated objects, contact with soil where fungal growth is present, and by inhalation of airborne keratin fragments containing the fungus.

Main types

The main types of dermatophytosis are:

1. Tinea pedis

Tinea pedis, commonly known as athlete’s foot, affects the feet and is caused mainly by Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes interdigitale.

This type of dermatophytosis is common in athletes and in people who wear closed shoes and socks for long periods or spend time in warm, humid public places such as gyms, locker rooms, and swimming pools.

Typical symptoms include itching between the toes, scaling, whitening of the skin, and a foul odor.

2. Tinea capitis

Tinea capitis affects the scalp and may be caused by Trichophyton tonsurans, Microsporum audouinii, or Trichophyton schoenleinii.

Infections caused by Trichophyton tonsurans or Microsporum audouinii usually result in bald patches on the scalp. Infections by Trichophyton schoenleinii often produce thick, white, crust-like plaques on the scalp.

3. Tinea cruris

Tinea cruris, also called jock itch, develops in the groin, inner thighs, or buttocks and is most often caused by Trichophyton rubrum.

This type of dermatophytosis affects hairless, warm, and moist areas of the body. Common symptoms include intense itching, redness, and irritation.

4. Tinea corporis

Tinea corporis, commonly referred to as ringworm, affects the outer layers of the skin and is caused mainly by Trichophyton rubrum, Microsporum canis, Trichophyton verrucosum, or Microsporum gypseum.

Symptoms can vary depending on the fungus involved but often include circular red patches with or without raised edges, itching, and skin scaling.

5. Tinea barbae

Tinea barbae is a rare type of dermatophytosis that affects the beard area in men. It is most commonly caused by Trichophyton verrucosum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, or Trichophyton rubrum.

Symptoms may include itching, red scaly plaques, small red bumps on or around the hair follicles, and dull, brittle hair that comes out easily.

6. Onychomycosis

Onychomycosis, also known as nail fungus, affects the nails and is most commonly caused by Trichophyton rubrum.

Typical symptoms include changes in nail color, shape, or thickness, as well as nail detachment.

Treatment options

Treatment for dermatophytosis must be prescribed by a dermatologist and generally involves antifungal medications to eliminate the fungus causing the infection.

The main antifungal treatments include:

  • Topical antifungal creams, ointments, or lotions, such as ketoconazole or miconazole;

  • Oral antifungal tablets, such as terbinafine or itraconazole;

  • Antifungal shampoos, such as ketoconazole or ciclopirox olamine;

  • Medicated nail lacquers, such as ciclopirox or efinaconazole.

Oral antifungals are usually prescribed for more extensive infections or when the scalp or nails are affected. The type of antifungal and duration of treatment should always be determined by a dermatologist.

Home remedies

Some plants have natural antifungal and healing properties that may help relieve itching and support medical treatment for dermatophytosis.

Examples include aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis), tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), and sage (Salvia officinalis). These should only be used as complementary options and never as a substitute for prescribed antifungal medication.

Self-care measures

During treatment, it’s important to follow certain self-care measures, such as:

  • Use the medication prescribed by your doctor as directed;

  • Do not stop treatment early, even if symptoms improve;

  • Keep the affected area clean and dry;

  • Avoid sharing personal hygiene items;

  • Wash your hands thoroughly after touching infected areas;

  • Change clothes, socks, shoes, and underwear daily.

It’s also recommended to avoid walking barefoot in locker rooms, pool areas, saunas, or gyms, and to always dry your skin thoroughly after bathing or exercising.

Update History
We regularly update our content with the latest scientific information to maintain an exceptional level of quality.

References
  • Onychomycosis. StatPearls. 2024. Accessed 31 Oct 2025 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441853/
  • PODDAR, S.; et al. Newer Therapies in Dermatophytosis. Indian J Dermatol. 2023;68(5):515-519.
  • BEGUM, J.; et al. Recent advances in the diagnosis of dermatophytosis. J Basic Microbiol. 2020;60(4):293-303.
  • DAS, A. Dermatophytosis: Newer Insights. Indian J Dermatol. 2023;68(5):491.
  • JARTARKAR, S. R.; et al. Pathogenesis, Immunology and Management of Dermatophytosis. J Fungi (Basel). 2022;8(1):39.
  • Barer, Michael E. Et Al. Medical Microbiology - A guide to microbial infections: pathogenesis, immunity, laboratory investigation and control. 19 ed ed. : Elsevier; 2018.