Fungal infections are very diverse. The whole body and especially the scalp, hands, feet, groin, oral-genital mucosa and the nails of the hands and feet can be involved. Fungal infections are highly contagious and can be transmitted from one region of the body to another, from humans to humans or from animals to humans. Transmission from shared items such as shoes, socks, slippers and towels is also common. Fungal infections can especially be seen in the nails due to non-sterile manicure or pedicure scissors use.
Involvement of the body is called tinea corporis and is often transmitted from animals to humans. Itching may increase the number of lesions. Having a person with fungus infection at home is an important risk factor for the other persons.
Tinea versicolor (Pityriasis versicolor) develops as a result of excessive increase due to various factors of a fungus type that is normally found on the skin. It can form spots that are skin color, brown, or lighter than skin color that are located especially on the back, torso and arms. Sun exposure can cause long-term or permanent pigment loss in these spots.
Candidiasis is a fungus infection caused by the yeast-type opportunistic fungus Candida albicans. It can affect the skin and the mucosa. It is often observed in fold regions, especially in overweight people. It can also be observed in the diaper area and sometimes in areas with intense sweating such as the neck and the armpit in infants. It can cause ‘thrush’ consisting of erythematous lesion in the mouth and a whiteness that looks like milk residue on the tongue. Involvement of the genital mucosa can cause erythema, itching, burning, and a white discharge.
The diagnosis of fungal infections is easy. Advanced investigations such as fungus search with KOH and fungus culture are used in suspicious cases. Topical or systemic antifungal treatment should be used depending