Human Favus in Quebec

Abstract

More than 120 cases of human favus due to Trichophyton schonleinii were detected in rural areas of the Province of Quebec through field investigations carried out during the last six years. Practically all cases showed lesions on the scalp characterized by the formation of scutula. Involvement of the glabrous skin was observed in three cases. Nails had become infected in only one instance. Family epidemics and isolated cases were encountered in almost any county wherever sought. All infected persons were native Canadians. There were no recent immigrants in these regions. In some families, favus was found in members of three or four consecutive generations. There is no doubt that investigations in other counties will result in the detection of many more cases of favus.