Arthroderma

Arthroderma is a genus of fungi in the family Arthrodermataceae. It denotes the teleomorph, or sexual, stage of certain dermatophyte fungi that cause infections of keratinized tissues such as skin, hair, and nails in humans and animals. In traditional fungal taxonomy, Arthroderma included several species whose asexual states belong to the genera Trichophyton, Microsporum, or Epidermophyton. As molecular methods refined classification, many species were reassigned to those genera, and Arthroderma is now mostly of historical or mycological interest rather than a clinical category.

Ecology and disease. These fungi are keratinophilic and broadly distributed worldwide. They can be isolated from soil, animals, and human carriers. Transmission is often via direct contact or fomites; some species are zoonotic. Infections are collectively called dermatophytosis or tinea and commonly affect the scalp (tinea capitis), body (tinea corporis), groin (tinea cruris), feet (tinea pedis), or nails (onychomycosis).

Diagnosis and treatment. Diagnosis relies on clinical signs supported by microscopy of skin or nail scrapings and culture. Cultures may reveal dermatophytes whose sexual state is Arthroderma. Treatment includes topical antifungals for localized infections and systemic agents such as terbinafine or azoles for extensive disease. Managing reservoirs and transmission, including treating infected animals and decontaminating items, is important.

See also: dermatophyte, tinea.