A Practical Plan for the Treatment of Superficial Fungus Infections

Abstract
Superficial fungus infections are discussed, and the various allergic manifestations to fungi "dermato-phytids" are classified. 16 formulas believed fairly efficacious in controlling fungus diseases are given. Secondary manifestations of dermatophytosis can not be properly treated unless the primary infection, which may be only a small focus between the toes or under a toenail, is eradicated. An impor-tant prerequisite to the treatment of direct dermatophytosis is the demonstration of the fungi by direct examination or by culture. Certain types of fungi, e.g., Trichophyton rubrum, are notoriously resistant to treatment. Nail infections are most difficult to treat. A conservative method consists in daily scraping the nail and then applying an antiseptic ointment or tincture. All infected parts must be removed. X-ray treatment has proved beneficial. Deep inflammatory dermatophytosis of hairy areas[long dash]usually of animal sources[long dash]should be cleaned with soap and water and hot wet dressings applied. When the inflammation has subsided, crusts are removed and antiseptic ointments applied. Dermatophytosis of the feet (athlete''s foot)[long dash]the most common of the fungus infections[long dash]often causes allergic manifestations. Most common are the vesicles "dermatophytids" along the sides of the fingers. The causative agent, T. mentagraphytes, has a high sensitizing power. Sensitivity may be demonstrated by the trichophyton test. Whether fungus infections are easily spread in shower and locker rooms is still debatable. The use of individual wooden slippers instead of foot baths is suggested. Foot powders and antiseptic liquids, in addition to sanitary measures, should be used on the feet if athlete''s foot is present. Too vigorous treatment of primary lesions is to be avoided when a high degree of sensitivity is present. Sterilization of materials presents a problem. Items which cannot be boiled may be treated by exposure to para-formaldehyde tablets in a closed receptacle. Candida (moniliasis) infections are treated in the same manner as other superficial fungus infections.