Seenhaigus

Seenhaigus is a general term that refers to diseases caused by fungi. In medical usage it often describes fungal infections that affect humans, though fungi can also cause diseases in animals and plants. Fungal diseases vary widely in severity, from mild skin or mucous membrane infections to serious, invasive illnesses that involve internal organs.

Fungal infections are typically classified by the part of the body they affect and by how invasive they are. Superficial infections involve the skin, hair, or nails and include conditions such as dermatophytosis (ringworm) and candidiasis of the skin. Mucosal infections affect moist surfaces such as the mouth, throat, or genital tract (for example oral thrush or vaginal yeast infections). Subcutaneous infections affect deeper layers of the skin and tissue. Invasive or systemic infections can involve the lungs, blood, brain, and other organs, and are more common in people with weakened immune systems.

Causes and transmission vary by organism. Fungi can be found in soil, plants, and environments such as showers or pools. Transmission occurs through direct contact, inhalation of spores, or, less commonly, through contaminated objects. Risk factors include immunosuppression, diabetes, prolonged antibiotic or steroid use, and age.

Diagnosis combines clinical examination with laboratory tests. Microscopy, fungal culture, and molecular methods such as PCR help identify the organism. Imaging and serology may be used for invasive diseases.

Treatment depends on location and severity. Superficial infections often respond to topical antifungals; deeper or invasive infections require systemic antifungal medications, such as azoles, echinocandins, or polyenes. Prevention focuses on good hygiene, keeping skin dry, avoiding sharing personal items, and promptly treating infections to limit spread.