dermatologic disorders
Overview of Dermatophytoses
Treatment of Dermatophytoses
Topical or oral antifungals Sometimes corticosteroids Topical antifungals are generally adequate for skin infections (see table). Over-the-counter (OTC)terbinafineis fungicidal and allows for shorter treatment duration. Topicaleconazoleorciclopiroxmay be better if candidal infection cannot be excluded. Other adequate OTC topical treatments includeclotrimazoleandmiconazole. Oral antifungals are used for most nail and scalp infections, resistant skin infections, and patients unwilling or unable to adhere to prolonged topical regimens; doses and duration differ by site of infection. Corticosteroids are sometimes used in addition to antifungal creams to help relieve itching and inflammation. However, combining topical corticosteroids and antifungal creams should be avoided when possible because topical corticosteroids promote fungus growth. OTC topical corticosteroid and antifungal products should not be used as substitutes for obtaining an accurate diagnosis with a KOH wet mount or culture. 