By Allison Sit
Researchers at NYU Langone Health are warning of new and highly contagious forms of ringworm or jock itch. Two recently published studies address two species of fungi that are easily spreadable with lesions that may be confused with eczema and are hard to treat.
The first study, published online in JAMA Dermatology, documented the first reported case in the U.S. of a sexually transmitted form of ringworm caused by the species Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII (TMVII), which has been increasingly diagnosed throughout Europe. Infections caused by TMVII so far appear to respond to standard antifungal therapies, such as terbinafine, though they can take months to clear.
“Since patients are often reluctant to discuss genital problems, physicians need to directly ask about rashes around the groin and buttocks, especially for those who are sexually active, have recently traveled abroad, and report itchy areas elsewhere on the body,” noted study senior author and dermatologist John Zampella, MD, in a news release.
In a second study also published in JAMA Dermatology, researchers presented a new skin condition that is an even greater challenge for dermatologists. Trichophyton indotineae (T. indotineae), which is widespread in India and reported globally, causes similar itchy and contagious rashes as TMVII but it often resists terbinafine treatment. The study found that when seven patients underwent treatment with itraconazole, three recovered entirely and two improved. Unfortunately, itraconazole can interfere with many medications and cause side effects, including nausea and diarrhea.
“These findings offer new insight into how some of the fungal skin infections spreading from South Asia can evade our go-to therapies,” said study lead author and dermatologist Avrom Caplan, MD. “Beyond learning to recognize their misleading signs, physicians will need to ensure their treatment addresses each patient’s quality-of-life needs.”
The American Academy of Dermatology and Firefighter Cancer Support Network are launching a new effort to provide free skin cancer checks to firefighters. The Firefighter Skin Cancer Checks Initiative is a nationwide effort to screen 10,000 firefighters by 2026. The program kicked off with a June 1 event at the New York City Firefighter Training Facility on Randall’s Island. Firefighters have a 21% greater risk of melanoma than the general public and are exposed to cancer-causing substances in the line of duty.
“These brave people rush toward danger to protect us all on a daily basis,” said board-certified dermatologist Seemal R. Desai, MD, FAAD, president of the AAD, in a news release. “By offering comprehensive skin cancer checks, dermatologists are extending a lifeline to these courageous individuals, recognizing their sacrifices and contributing to their continued well-being as they selflessly serve our communities.”
“The fight against cancer is deeply personal to every one of us in the FDNY,” said Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh. “We know screening and prevention can make a difference. Our members’ health and safety are of utmost importance, and we encourage our members to get their skin checked annually. We are grateful to participate in the Firefighter Skin Cancer Checks Initiative.”
