Generality
The cutaneous mycoses are infections supported by pathogenic fungi, which develop, in fact, at the level of the skin; more specifically, these infections typically involve the keratinized layers of the epidermis and the skin appendages (nails, hair and hair).
Causes
The fungi responsible for the onset of cutaneous mycoses are called dermatophytes and essentially belong to three different genera: Microsporum, Epidermophyton and Trichophyton .
Furthermore, even yeasts (such as, for example, Candida ) can give rise to cutaneous mycoses.
There are several factors that can favor the onset of these fungal infections. Among these, we recall:
- a reduced efficiency of the immune system;
- the use of antibiotics that can destroy the bacterial flora of our body, favoring the appearance of opportunistic fungal infections;
- diabetes, as high blood sugar levels can promote the proliferation of certain types of fungi that are found in different areas of the body and that normally are not pathogenic, but can become so when they proliferate excessively.
- Finally, even poor personal hygiene can contribute to the development of cutaneous mycoses.
Symptoms
The symptoms of cutaneous mycoses may be different depending on the site where they develop.
However, among the various symptoms that can occur, we mention: itching, peeling of the skin, formation of pus, alopecia (when the fungal infection affects the scalp), formation of macules, skin discoloration, erythema, nail thickening ( if mycosis affects the nails) and blisters on the skin.
Information on Skin Mycoses - Drugs for the Treatment of Cutaneous Mycoses are not intended to replace the direct relationship between health professional and patient. Always consult your doctor and / or specialist before taking Mycosis of the Skin - Drugs for the treatment of Cutaneous Mycosis.
drugs
Since these are infections caused by pathogenic fungi, the drugs used to treat cutaneous mycoses are antifungals (or antifungals).
Usually, for the treatment of this type of mycosis, it is preferable to use antifungal drugs for topical use. However, if the topical therapy is not effective, the doctor may decide to resort to the administration of systemic antifungals.
Furthermore, it is good to remember that to promote healing, proper personal hygiene - as well as clothing and footwear hygiene - are fundamental factors.
clotrimazole
Clotrimazole (Canesten®) is an azole type antifungal drug widely used in the treatment of cutaneous mycoses, such as cutaneous candidiasis, pityriasis versicolor and ringworm of the feet and body.
It is an active ingredient available in different pharmaceutical formulations, such as sprays, creams and powder for cutaneous use.
Usually, it is recommended to apply the product directly on the area affected by the fungal infection, from two to three times a day. The treatment should then be continued for at least two weeks after the symptoms have disappeared.
miconazole
Also miconazole (Miconal®, Daktarin®, Decoderm®) is an azole type antifungal widely used in the treatment of cutaneous mycoses caused by dermatophytes and yeasts such as Candida .
For the treatment of cutaneous mycoses, miconazole is available in the form of cream, solution, spray and skin powder, and also in the form of dermatological milk.
Generally, it is recommended to apply the product once or twice a day, directly on the affected area. The duration of treatment can vary from two to five weeks. However, it will be the doctor who will provide the exact indications on the dosage of the medicine for each patient.
Ketoconazole
Ketoconazole (Nizoral®) is another azole-type antifungal drug. It is mainly used in the treatment of cutaneous candidiasis and ringworms of different origins (of the body, feet, versicolor, etc.).
For the treatment of cutaneous mycoses, ketoconazole is used in the form of a cream, which must be applied to the area affected by the infection once or twice a day. Also in this case, the duration of the treatment varies from two to six weeks.
Terbinafine
Terbinafine (Lamisil®, Lamisilmono®) is an antifungal agent belonging to the chemical class of allylamines. Its use is particularly indicated for the treatment of cutaneous mycoses caused by both dermatophytes and yeasts.
It is available in pharmaceutical formulations suitable for both oral and cutaneous administration. When administered via this last route, it is recommended to apply the terbinafine based product (cream, gel, solution or spray) on the area affected by the fungal infection once or twice a day.
When administered orally, however, the dose of medication used in adult patients is 250 mg a day, to be taken in a single dose or in divided doses. The duration of treatment will be established by the doctor.
griseofulvin
Griseofulvin (Fulcin®) is an antifungal drug of natural origin, which is used in the treatment of cutaneous mycoses in case topical antifungal therapy has proved ineffective.
Griseofulvin is available for oral administration as tablets. The usual dose is 500-1, 000 mg of active ingredient per day, which can be taken in a single dose, or in divided doses.
In any case, the doctor will determine the exact amount of drug to be taken and the duration of treatment, depending on the severity of the cutaneous mycosis that must be treated.
