Topical and systemic antifungals in dermatology practice.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Dermatophytosis is generally defined as an infection of the hair, nails, or glabrous skin. These infections are caused by the keratinophilic fungi Trichophyton spp., Microsporum spp., and Epidermophyton, which have been recovered from both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. Although dermatophytosis is generally not a life-threatening condition, these types of infections are among the most common infections worldwide, and their incidence has continued to increase consistently in recent years. Area covered: This article provides an overview of the general characteristics of dermatophytes, including their taxonomy and epidemiology, as well as the different clinical forms and laboratory diagnostics of dermatophytosis. We further classify the topical and systemic antifungal compounds currently used to treat dermatophyte infections. Expert commentary: Antifungal therapy is a central component of patient management for dermatophytosis, and depending on the strategy chosen, topical and/or systemic drugs can be used. However, for effective treatment, it is important to correctly determine the causal agents at the species level, which will enable administration of suitable therapeutics and initiation of appropriate management strategies.

• Authors: Murat Durdu, Macit Ilkit, Yalda Tamadon, Ali Tolooe, Haleh Rafati, Seyedmojtaba Seyedmousavi
• Journal: Expert review of clinical pharmacology (Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol) Vol. 10 Issue 2 Pg. 225-237 (Feb 2017) ISSN: 1751-2441 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 27868472 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Antifungal Agents

Topics

• Administration, Topical
• Antifungal Agents (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
• Dermatomycoses (drug therapy)
• Humans