Dermatomycoses: infections that love the heat… and our skin

Dermatomycoses are highly contagious, and the contamination sources vary.

They may be anthropophilic, i.e., passed on by an infected person. Contagion can occur through:

• direct contact with an infected person
• contact with contaminated objects, such as yoga mats, towels or shoes, on which fungi can survive several months
• contact with wet surfaces in public places, such as showers or pools

We can also self-contaminate by spreading a fungus from one area of our bodies to another ourselves.

Dermatomycoses can also be zoophilic, i.e., passed on by infected animals. Some fungus species are specific to animals and can be passed on even if the animal – like a cat or dog – does not exhibit any symptoms. If transmission by a pet is suspected, a visit to the veterinarian is essential to prevent recurrences.

Finally, some infections are geophilic and come from soil. Although rarer, they can occur after contact with contaminated soil, for example, while gardening.

Heat and humidity are two factors that promote the spread of fungi responsible for dermatomycoses. In the summer our bodies perspire more, creating moist areas – particularly between the toes, the folds of the skin and the groin – which form an ideal “ground” for their development.

Added to that are some typically summertime activities, such as swimming in public pools, hot tubs, lakes or even the use of camp showers. Walking barefoot in these places increases the risk of contact with fungi present on the surfaces. Even wearing shoes does not completely eliminate the risk: keeping the same shoes on the whole day or wearing sandals with bare feet indoors causes stagnant sweat, which is conducive to the spread of fungi. Finally, some everyday habits can also contribute to transmission, such as wearing a damp bathing suit and sharing towels, sandals or mats.

In a nutshell, dermatomycoses are more common in the summer, because of both the climate and our seasonal habits.

Good news: dermatomycoses can be properly treated… provided they are properly diagnosed. Several medical conditions can cause symptoms similar to those of dermatomycoses: eczema, psoriasis, bacterial infections and in rare cases, even tumours. In these cases, treatment for dermatomycoses will be ineffective.

In most cases of dermatomycosis, an antifungal cream will suffice. However, some more extensive or stubborn infections may require the use of oral antifungal medications.

That said, even after a successful initial treatment, recurrences are common. To promote sustainable healing and prevent subsequent infections, some habits can make all the difference:

• keep skin clean and dry, particularly between the toes and the folds of the skin
• change socks and undergarments regularly
• avoid walking barefoot in damp public places
• avoid sharing towels, shoes and toiletries
• dry the skin thoroughly after showering
• wear loose-fitting clothing made of light fabrics
• wear well-aerated shoes
• see a veterinarian if you suspect a pet has dermatomycosis
• wear gloves when gardening
• treat any infection quickly to prevent it from spreading

Wrong!

Dermatomycoses are benign infections, certainly, but they can be stubborn. They should not be taken lightly. Accurate diagnosis, tailored treatment and adopting hygiene measures are essential to getting rid of them… and avoiding recurrences.

So, if a strange itch or suspicious spot appears on your skin, don’t wait. See a health professional. It’s better to treat a small fungus early… than to have to evict a well-settled guest!